One year ago, we introduced something special to our community … a hands-on experience designed to spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and connect people directly with the incredible marine life of the Gulf of Maine.
We’ve been so proud of the impact that our 200-gallon touch tank has made—an interactive experience that has welcomed more than 7,500 visitors and counting.
A Hands-On Window Into the Gulf of Maine
From the moment guests dip their hands into the cool, circulating waters, something remarkable happens.
They’re no longer just learning about marine ecosystems—they’re experiencing them.
Our touch tank is home to a diverse collection of sea creatures native to the Gulf of Maine, offering visitors the rare opportunity to gently interact with species they might otherwise only see in books or from a distance. From sea stars and urchins to other fascinating invertebrates, each interaction becomes a moment of discovery.
It’s tactile. It’s memorable. And most importantly—it’s meaningful.
Where Education Meets Inspiration
In just one year, the touch tank has become one of the most beloved features of our Environmental Education Center.
Families, students, educators, and visitors of all ages have engaged with the exhibit—not just for fun, but to better understand the fragile ecosystems that exist just off our shores.
Each interaction opens the door to bigger conversations:
- The importance of protecting marine habitats
- The growing challenges of pollution and climate change
- The role each of us can play in preserving our oceans
This is education at its best—immersive, accessible, and impactful.
Building a Hub for Environmental Learning
The success of the touch tank has also helped elevate the entire Environmental Education Center into a vibrant hub for exploration and learning.
Visitors who come for the touch tank often stay to experience:
- Interactive aquariums showcasing regional marine life
- Engaging exhibits that break down complex environmental issues
- Local artwork inspired by Maine’s coastal ecosystems
- Behind-the-scenes lab tours that bring science to life
- A thoughtfully curated gift shop that supports our mission
Together, these elements create an experience that is both educational and inspiring—a place where science, storytelling, and community come together.
A Community Effort That Made It Possible
What makes this milestone even more meaningful is how it came to life.
The touch tank—and the broader educational experiences it supports—are made possible through the generosity of our community. Individual donors and mission-aligned sponsors, including Clearview Energy, have played a vital role in ensuring this resource remains free and accessible to all.
As our Executive Director, Dr. Charlie Rolsky, shares:
“Over the past year, the touch tank has become so much more than an exhibit—it’s become a gateway to understanding. We’ve seen thousands of visitors connect with marine life in a way that’s immediate and personal, and that kind of experience stays with people. Thanks to the incredible support of our donors and partners like Clearview Energy, we’ve been able to provide this as a free educational resource for the community. It’s also played a huge role in helping us establish and grow our Environmental Education Center into a dynamic space for learning, exploration, and inspiration.”
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking forward. We’re continuing to expand programming, enhance exhibits, and create even more opportunities for hands-on learning. The enthusiasm and engagement we’ve seen over the past year reaffirm what we’ve always believed:
When people connect with the natural world in meaningful ways, they’re more likely to protect it.
Come Experience It for Yourself
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the touch tank offers something new every time. We invite you to stop by, explore the Environmental Education Center, and experience firsthand the wonder of the Gulf of Maine—right at your fingertips. Because sometimes, the most powerful way to learn… is to reach out and touch it.
Here’s a couple of shots from the celebration on April 18, 2026:
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