The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation recently partnered with the Children’s Museum of the East End (CMEE) through their Discover My Community 2007 exhibit. The exhibit features the Riverhead Foundation along with three other local not-for-profit organizations for a “hands-on” learning approach to what’s in our neighborhood. The exhibit will be featured until March 24, 2008. The goal is to provide the opportunity for children and grown-ups to become more aware of our community and the marine environment through interactive activities related to art, science, music and literacy. These activities at the Riverhead Foundation’s exhibit enable children to role play potential marine science careers while rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing marine mammals.

“Because they can’t dial 911, we’ve relied on the public to be our eyes and ears for the marine mammals and sea turtles in New York waters. Community involvement through developing citizen scientists is essential to finding out more about what’s in our backyard,” stated Robert DiGiovanni, Jr., the Foundation Director/Senior Biologist. “To develop a sustainable future with citizen scientists it only makes sense to involve our children. As children are our future, we are making the investment to open doors to our ocean backyard for them in hopes that they will in return enlighten their parents and friends.“

Photos are available of the exhibit and press have the opportunity to interview Foundation Director and Senior Biologist, Robert DiGiovanni, Jr., to discuss this exhibit and programs offered by the Riverhead Foundation, such as adoptions, cold-stun sea turtle season, seal cruises, animal tracking and more. For more information or to schedule and interview, call the office at (631) 369-9840.