I first came to Race Rocks nearly 24 (!) years ago, as a first year Pearson student. Imagine then my joy at learning that I would be joined this week by biology teacher Christie and a group of her students, out on the Rocks for CAS week. Based in the science building on the westerly side of the island, they spent five days exploring fauna and flora.
Pearson students by the tide pools
On Thursday morning, Richard came out in Pedder Explorer to take everyone on a field trip. Conditions were spectacular, though with other visitors on the island (more on that in an upcoming post) I had to stay behind. But at least I got to see the pack of five orcas transiting south of the island from the tower, with Pedder Explorer in the background.
Pedder Explorer on her way
In the afternoon, I joined everyone in a detailed exploration of the tide pools. We have had really low tides during the day recently, which makes for excellent explorations of the intertidal zone – thank you Christie for your fascinating and entertaining insights into the complex ecosystems of the island!
Christie and Pearson students in the best outdoor classroom in the world
Facility work
- Health and Safety Checks
- Fire extinguisher re-certification
- Desalination (using both generator and solar power)
- Seawater sampling (with student assistance)
Weather
- Wind: 6kts NNE
- Predominantly sunny
- Air temp: 10C
Vessels: more than half a dozen Eco-tourism boats, Pedder Explorer