Project Lemon Aid has returned to the shores of the Turks and Caicos for the second year running.
The team from Sharks4Kids is back in partnership with the Big Blue Collective and Edward Gartland Youth Centre, to build awareness amongst children about the importance of sharks to he island’s ecosystems.
This year the team visited schools to teach kids about sharks and provide them with activity packets, books, posters, and more. The team was also involved in shark tagging, and for the first time, up to 20 students were able to get some hands-on experience tagging sharks.
Commenting on the trip Founder and president of Sharks4Kids, and Project Team Leader Jillian Morris stated:
“Partnering with local organizations is critical for the long-term success of this project. Big Blue Collective supports the project with boats and provides a lot of local knowledge about the areas we are working in. The ECG Youth Centre and Ms. Ferguson coordinated our school visits and organized for students to join us in the field. These local connections are invaluable and we are so thankful for them.”
While Sharks4kids team member and Marine Biologist and Project Leader Candace Fields added:
“A crucial part of Project Lemon Aid is educating local students about the importance of lemon sharks and their mangrove habitats. We do this not only through classroom visits but by getting kids out with us in the field. Having the opportunity to see these animals in their natural habitat and to be able to get hands-on with the animals and engage in the science firsthand gives the kids a unique experience that hopefully encourages them to continue to learn more and teach others about sharks and their importance in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
Meanwhile, Suzie Provo, a Middle School student who took part in the initiative, said:
“Shark tagging was a new experience for me that I will never forget. Seeing all the fascinating equipment, preparation, and strategies to catch the sharks is intriguing. The 2 times I’ve done it I have learned so much about the marine life. And the team Sharks4kids is amazing!”
