Join us in celebrating 85 years of marine science at Island Science Day on Saturday, October 3, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at The University of Texas Marine Science Institute. Founded in 1941, the Marine Science Institute is the oldest and one of the leading marine research facilities on the Texas coast, advancing research, education, and outreach focused on the Gulf and coastal environments.

This year’s celebration also recognizes 20 years of the Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve, a partnership dedicated to protecting and studying the coastal ecosystems of the Mission-Aransas Estuary through research, stewardship, and community engagement. As one of only 30 National Estuarine Research Reserves in the country, the reserve plays a vital role in conserving Texas coastal habitats and supporting environmental education.

Island Science Day offers visitors of all ages the opportunity to explore interactive exhibits, meet scientists and students, tour research facilities, and discover the groundbreaking work taking place along the Texas coast. Guests can also participate in special demonstrations and boat excursions for a closer, hands-on look at marine science.

Registration is required for demonstrations and boat excursions, and space is limited. Registration will be available in person only on Saturday, October 3, at the Patton Center Auditorium (855 E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373) beginning at 9:30 AM, unless otherwise noted.

We invite you to be part of this milestone celebration as we reflect on 85 years of marine science at UTMSI and 20 years of coastal stewardship through the Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve.

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Schedule of Events

Demonstrations (Registration Required)

Strawberry DNA Extraction (limit 15 persons) 

10 AM, 10:30 AM, 11 AM, 11:30 AM, 12 PM, 12:30 PM, 1 PM, 1:30 PM

Join the Casey Lab for a hands-on exploration of DNA! Discover how scientists study the building blocks of life through a fun and interactive strawberry DNA extraction activity. Participants will use simple laboratory techniques to break open strawberry cells and isolate visible strands of DNA. Learn how DNA stores genetic information and explore the molecular processes scientists use to investigate the instructions that make up living organisms.

The Souring Ocean (limit 15 persons) 

10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, 1 PM

Join UTMSI researchers for an interactive exploration of the science that shapes our oceans. Discover how temperature, salinity, and wind influence ocean movement through hands-on experiments that demonstrate the forces driving ocean circulation. Get a closer look at microscopic marine life and explore the tiny organisms that make up ocean ecosystems. Learn how changes in ocean chemistry, including ocean acidification, can impact marine organisms and the environments they call home. Through engaging demonstrations and real scientific tools, discover how scientists study the dynamic processes that keep our oceans connected.

Wetland Wonders (limit 15 persons) 

10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, 1 PM

UTMSI’s Coastal Ecology Lab will introduce you to the wonders of Texas’ coastal wetland habitats. Seagrasses, marshes, and mangroves are the lifeblood of our estuaries, providing energy and nutrients to support commercially important species, such as blue crab, redfish, and flounder. Unfortunately, our Texas wetlands are highly threatened habitats. We will discuss the importance of wetlands, the threats to these vulnerable habitats, and the approaches we use to study these diverse ecosystems. You’ll have the opportunity to create your own wetland plant artwork, practice surveying seagrass species, explore the diverse organisms living within wetland habitats, and use state-of-the-art scientific equipment.

Plastics and Nurdles (limit 15 persons) 

10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, 1 PM

Join the Marine Organic Geochemistry/Environmental Analytical Chemistry lab to dive into the world of marine debris and nurdle pollution along the Texas coast. Discover nurdles collected from local beaches, examine everyday plastic items, and learn about microplastics in local bays. Gain hands-on experience with samples, explore how plastics are identified using FTIR scans, and observe microplastics under a microscope. You’ll also learn how to conduct a nurdle patrol and participate in a mock nurdle hunt. See if you can distinguish between sand and nurdles!

Keeping it Reel! (limit 15 persons) 

10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, 1 PM

Join us for “Keeping it Reel!” for a hands-on exploration of marine animal anatomy and biology. Begin with an engaging discussion about marine animals, their habitats, and the impacts of human activities on ocean ecosystems. Participants will then learn how to properly use dissection tools before examining the external and internal anatomy of a marine specimen.

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Vessel Excursions (Registration Required)

Before You Register:

Participants must be 10 years of age or older, wear closed-toed shoes, and arrive 30 minutes early for the mandatory safety briefing and life jacket fitting. If you do not arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time, your spot will be forfeited and may be given to another participant. Please dress appropriately for the weather, as shade is limited onboard. Drinks and snacks are welcome, but glass containers and alcohol are not permitted. A Release and Indemnification Agreement must be completed before boarding and will be provided at registration.

No exceptions will be made to these requirements. Registration for each boat trip will open one hour before the scheduled departure time and will close once the trip reaches maximum capacity. We strongly encourage early registration, as spots are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Life in a Texas Estuary” aboard the R/V Katy (limit 20 persons) 

9:30–11:00 AM, 11:00 AM –12:30 PM, 12:30–2:00 PM

Set sail on an unforgettable educational cruise aboard the R/V Katy and dive into the vibrant life of Texas Estuaries! Experience the thrill of trawling in the Lydia Ann Channel, where you’ll uncover the secrets of fish adaptations, physiology, and food webs. Then, take a deep dive into the benthos to explore fascinating bottom-dwelling organisms and their critical roles in marine ecosystems. 

Registration for each boat trip opens one hour before the scheduled departure time and will close once the trip reaches maximum capacity:

• 9:30–11:00 AM trip: Registration opens at 8:30 AM (Registration will be located outside of the Patton Center)
• 11:00 AM–12:30 PM trip: Registration opens at 10:00 AM (Registration will be located inside the Patton Center)
• 12:30–2:00 PM trip: Registration opens at 11:30 AM (Registration will be located inside the Patton Center)

Please note that the “Life in a Texas Estuary” aboard the R/V Katy will depart from Roberts Point Park (301 J C Barr Blvd, Port Aransas, TX 78373), not the University of Texas Marine Science Institute campus. Registration for the boat trip will take place at the Patton Center at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute campus, not at the marina. Additional details and instructions regarding the boat trip location and logistics will be provided at registration.

“Surrounding Seagrass” aboard the Curt Johnson (limit 10 persons) 

9:30–11:00 AM, 11:00 AM –12:30 PM, 12:30–2:00 PM

Embark on an exhilarating adventure into the Lydia Ann Channel and its vibrant bay, where you’ll dive into the fascinating world of marine plants and their vital roles in the ecosystem! Get ready to trawl for seagrass and explore the lush mangrove-marsh habitats of the estuary. This hands-on experience promises an up-close encounter with these dynamic ecosystems, so dress for action and wear shoes and clothing that can handle getting wet and muddy!

Registration for each boat trip opens one hour before the scheduled departure time and will close once the trip reaches maximum capacity:

• 9:30–11:00 AM trip: Registration opens at 8:30 AM (Registration will be located outside of the Patton Center)
• 11:00 AM–12:30 PM trip: Registration opens at 10:00 AM (Registration will be located inside the Patton Center)
• 12:30–2:00 PM trip: Registration opens at 11:30 AM (Registration will be located inside the Patton Center)

The Curt Johnson will depart from the University of Texas Marine Science Institute campus. Registration will take place at the Patton Center (855 E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373).

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Come and Go Activities (No Registration Required)

Digging Into Sediments

Dig into the science of sediments with UTMSI researchers! Discover how layers of sand and mud preserve clues about the history of our coast and the changing environments that shaped it. Through hands-on activities, explore sediment cores that reveal past environmental conditions, investigate the roles of wind, waves, and tides in building barrier islands, and meet some of the fascinating organisms that live within coastal sediments. Learn how scientists study both the living and nonliving components of sediments to better understand Texas coastal ecosystems and the natural processes that continue to shape our shoreline today.

Fish Printing

Discover the traditional Japanese art of Gyotaku, a unique printing technique that captures the shapes, textures, and intricate details of fish. Learn about the history of this art form and how it has been used to document marine life, then get hands-on by using replica fish to create your own unique print.

Vendor Booths & Food

Explore a variety of vendor and outreach booths featuring local organizations, agencies, and marine science partners. Stop by to learn more about coastal research, conservation, education, and the work being done to protect our oceans and coastal communities. When you’re ready for a bite or a cool treat, grab something from Abuela’s Glizzies – The Hot Dog Lady or Kona Ice and enjoy the festivities throughout Island Science Day.

Self Guided Tours

Wetlands Education Center
Discover the importance of coastal wetlands at the 3.6-acre Wetlands Education Center. Follow the accessible trail and interpretive signs to see how wetlands support wildlife, filter water, and help protect our coast. Take a self-guided walk and explore the unique plants, animals, and habitats found in this important coastal ecosystem.

Water Wise Wildlife Garden
See how a garden can support both people and wildlife while conserving water. The Water Wise Wildlife Garden showcases native plants that are well adapted to the coastal environment and provide food and shelter for wildlife. Wander through the garden, relax on the benches, and learn how water-wise landscaping can create habitat in your own backyard.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can’t attend Island Science Day but still want to support UTMSI’s mission? Consider making a donation to help support marine science, education, and outreach along the Texas coast.