Photo credit SCMI
Catalina Island’s marine environment attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Ocean kayakers, anglers and Catalina Island scuba divers explore above and below the surface, discovering a nearly pristine environment that teems with marine life.
That environment, like many in the world, is at risk from a number of threats. Students and faculty at the University of Southern California’s Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies are on the front lines of assessing and perhaps even ending those threats. Located near Two Harbors, on Catalina Island’s remote West End, the Wrigley Institute features labs, housing and lecture halls designed for students to learn more about the marine environment and the threats it faces.
While the Wrigley Marine Science Center at Two Harbors is primarily focused on educating students and facilitating research, the facility is open to the public on a limited basis. Individuals can visit with an appointment set up by calling (310) 510-0811. During the summer, Saturdays at the Lab provide two hour tours every Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. And new this year, USC Family Science Programs will provide fascinating scientific exploration for families with children ages five and up. Three weekend programs are available and three full day programs. Reservations are highly recommended.