Dr. Beal visits with 7th grade scientists

Morgan Cuthbert shared our 7th grade science students' latest learning experience:

Dr. Beal at work

We were pleased to have Dr. Brian Beal, of the University of Maine Machias and Downeast Institute, join the 7th Grade Life Science Classes on May 26th.  Dr. Beal is an expert on the soft shell clam, Mya arenaria. Soft shell clamming is the 2nd most lucrative fishery in the State. Dr. Beal will discuss the traits and reproductive cycle of the soft shell clam along with the research he's conducting in Freeport and along the Maine Coast to help repopulate a dwindling organism in our state. Our classes have been studying invasive species and healthy ecosystems, and classifying organisms like mollusks. Dr. Beals' experiences will connect to our students' current knowledge.