WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has awarded $299,842 to the Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Portland, according to a joint press release from U.S. Sens. Olympia J. Snowe and Susan Collins, R-Maine.

NOAA allocated the grant to Gulf of Maine Research Institute for an education project titled “VitalVenture: Immersing Middle School Learners in Authentic Aquatic Science Investigations.” The project aims to integrate watershed themes and experiences with middle school science education curriculum and help local students understand and appreciate their coastal environment.

“In order to ensure the future health of Maine’s watershed, we must educate younger generations to study and interact with their environment,” Snowe and Collins said. “By appreciating this unique water course that connects and supports life sources of all kinds, young people can nurture and protect Maine’s watershed for years to come.”