The REEF | UCSB Marine Science Institute

For scheduling requests, please email inquiries to our REEF Program Coordinator at outreach@msi.ucsb.edu or call us at 805.893.8765.

MISSION

Oceans-to-Classrooms (O₂C) and the REEF endeavour to provide “An Ocean View of the World” to people of all ages to increase science literacy and inspire environmental stewardship of our Ocean resources through education. Oceans-to-Classrooms is dedicated to educating people about the role scientific research plays in the understanding and conservation of our Ocean planet.

ABOUT

Located at Campus Point Beach, the REEF is part of the Marine Science Institute’s (MSI) Oceans-to-Classrooms (O2C) education and outreach program. Equipped with state-of-the-art touch tanks and aquaria, The REEF provides an “Ocean View of the World” for students in Southern California including Santa Barbara, Ventura, Kern, Los Angeles, San Diego, and beyond! The REEF’s unique method of instruction and science communication utilizes current and on-going research at UCSB to illustrate the role science plays in "Our Maritime Community," and aligns it with Common Core, and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

From 2, to 2,000, gallons, The REEF has Temperate and Tropical aquaria and touch tanks to explore an Ocean View of the World!

Combined with strategic on- and off-campus partnerships, The REEF has developed a unique model for using science to connect visitors with the many facets of "Our Maritime Community (OMC)" model. Integrating STEM with History/Social Science, English Language Arts, and Earth Science, the OMC model illustrates the interconnected aspect of every stakeholder in our community and the vital role the Ocean plays in our collective health and economic stability. MSI produces high level science, literacy and pedagogical programs for K-12 students, teachers, college courses and the community-at-large. Additionally, through off-campus collaborations with the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and the Santa Barbara County Education Office, MSI creates very meaningful, place-based curricula for K12 students and professional development opportunities for teachers. Through our web-based content, MSI has the capacity to bring our “Ocean View of the World” to students all around this Ocean Planet.

Please consider donating to The REEF. Anything helps.

donate

Public Hours

Have you ever wanted to hold a sea hare or lobster?
Come down to The REEF for Open Door!
We are open to the public every Friday/Saturday (except for major holidays) during our Open Door hours. The REEF is always FREE of charge.
For more information, please email our REEF Program Coordinator at outreach@msi.ucsb.edu or call us at 805.893.8765.