A hands-on workshop for teachers at Governors Island that combines marine science, oyster restoration, and outdoor education—transform your classroom with real-world environmental experiences.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, no strenuous activity involved
Wildlife
History
Governors Island has hosted military forts since the 19th century and played roles in navigating New York’s defense.
Conservation
The Billion Oyster Project emphasizes sustainable restoration practices, improving water quality and supporting local ecosystems.
Billion Oyster Project
A hands-on workshop for teachers at Governors Island that combines marine science, oyster restoration, and outdoor education—transform your classroom with real-world environmental experiences.
Billion Oyster Project is a conservation and education initiative focused on restoring oysters in New York Harbor while engaging educators, students, and community volunteers. The Project offers a range of hands-on programs and trainings that combine fieldwork, classroom curriculum, and citizen science. Educator-focused offerings include Oyster Research Tank (ORT) Training—a 6.5-hour session that trains teachers to set up and monitor classroom oyster tanks—and Oyster Research Station (ORS) Training to equip teachers with skills to monitor oyster growth and biodiversity. Short workshops such as Oysters 101 and ORS Refresher provide two- to 2.5-hour refreshers and CTLE-credit opportunities, and some trainings include ferry travel to Governors Island.
Public programs invite volunteers to participate in ORS Monitoring, shell cleaning on Governors Island, and community water quality testing events. Volunteer roles range from collecting data on oyster health at Oyster Research Stations to spending five hours preparing shells for restoration. The Project also supports public-facing events such as the Community Water Quality Testing end-of-season celebration, featuring data review, snacks, and a paper-making workshop. Many programs emphasize inquiry-based, place-based education that connects classroom lessons to real-world marine conservation and stewardship. Training sessions promote collaboration among educators, provide hands-on activities for students, and contribute to oyster research and restoration efforts across New York Harbor. Classroom and community participants gain practical experience with oyster life cycles, habitat, monitoring techniques, and water quality testing.
Programs Offered
9
Hands-on education and restoration programs
Educator Resources
Multiple
Teacher trainings and workshops available
Training Lengths
2–6.5 hrs
Short workshops to full trainings
Restoration Focus
New York Harbor
Oyster restoration and water quality work
Sign up for educator trainings, volunteer shifts, or community monitoring events to support oyster restoration and hands-on marine learning.
Dress for outdoor activity
Wear water-resistant and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor and ferry travel.
Arrive early for ferry
Get to the ferry terminal 15 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding.
Bring educational materials
Prepare any materials or notes needed for your classroom integration.
Stay for additional island exploration
Use this opportunity to explore Governors Island after the workshop.
Water-resistant clothing
Protects against outdoor elements and potential splashes at the oyster station.
spring|summer|fall
Notebook and pen
For notes and curriculum planning during the workshop.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking around Governors Island and the oyster station.
Hat and sunglasses
Protects from sun exposure during outdoor activities.
summer