Submitted by the Friends of the San Juans.
On Dec. 2, 12 members of the Mullis Community Senior Center donned virtual reality headsets and embarked on an incredible underwater journey through the Salish Sea. They swam among swaying bull kelp forests, vast schools of herring, spawning salmon and more. This unique event was part of Friends of the San Juans’ Immersive Salish Sea Education Program, led by Community Science and Education Director Jess Newley. Participants explored some of the most precious habitats and wildlife right in our backyard — the cold, biodiverse and wondrous waters of the Salish Sea.
“We’ve been running this program for over four years now, primarily in high school science classes, but it’s a true joy to share our virtual reality videos with adults and hear their exclamations of awe as they experience our waters from a new perspective,” shared Newley.
Friends of the San Juans extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed during the San Juan Island Community Foundation’s San Juan Island Cares Fair Campaign, which enabled the expansion of this educational program to reach broader community audiences. This year, thanks to generous community support, Friends of the San Juans educated 89% more youth than last year about the Salish Sea ecosystem using their innovative curriculum and virtual reality videos.
“Virtual reality opens the door to the underwater world, making the intricate web of marine life accessible to those who might never dive beneath the surface,” said Newley. ” Whether young or old, in the safety of this virtual environment, viewers form a profound connection with the interconnected wildlife that supports us all, and a commitment to its care and protection.”
Interested in offering this virtual reality experience to your group or organization? Reach out to Newley at Jess@sanjuans.org. Keep an eye out for more opportunities at local libraries and other venues this spring!
Friends of the San Juans relies on community support to bring people and nature together to protect the San Juan Islands and the Salish Sea through education, science, policy and law. And there’s good news. Every dollar you give by Dec. 31 will be matched, up to $75,000. A gift of $150 doubles to $300! Please consider making a contribution today. Learn more and give at www.sanjuans.org.
