The Salish Sea School was awarded a $1,000 Grow Boating Grant from NMTA. We spoke with Founder and Executive Director Amy Eberling to learn how the funding helped them and how important the marine industry is to making this work possible.
What does The Salish Sea School do?
The Salish Sea School is an Anacortes-based nonprofit connecting people of all ages to the Salish Sea through hands-on boat and shore-based education and research. We get students and community members out of the classroom and onto the water, islands, beaches and shorelines to learn firsthand about marine wildlife, ecosystems, conservation and maritime careers.
A major focus is reducing barriers to marine experiences. For many young people, a Salish Sea School program is their first time on a boat, visiting an island or seeing wildlife in its natural habitat. We hope those experiences create a lifelong connection to the water and help young people see themselves as future boaters, scientists, educators, captains, conservationists and marine professionals.
How were the NMTA Grow Boating grant dollars used?
The grant supported our Outdoor Access Fund, which provides youth with free opportunities to get on the water. Funds helped cover boat-based programming costs, including vessel operations, fuel, captains, instructional staff and safety equipment.
While onboard, students learn boating safety, navigation and maritime awareness; observe wildlife; participate in marine science activities; explore islands and shorelines; and discover the many ways people can recreate, work and care for the Salish Sea.
Did the grant allow you to do something you otherwise could not?
Absolutely. Boat-based education is one of the most impactful things we do, but it is also one of the most expensive. NMTA’s support helps keep these experiences accessible regardless of a family’s ability to pay.
There is something incredibly powerful about watching a student step aboard a boat for the first time. A place they may have only seen from shore suddenly becomes something they can explore, understand and feel connected to. NMTA helps make those moments possible.
How did the funds advance NMTA’s Grow Boating mission?
NMTA’s mission aligns beautifully with our work. We introduce young people to boating at an early age and help make their first experience on the water positive, educational, welcoming and safe. Many participants come from families who may not own a boat or otherwise have regular access to boating.
By removing those barriers, we are broadening access to the boating community and helping create the next generation of boaters, marine professionals, scientists and stewards.
What would you like NMTA members to know, and how can they help?
The marine industry is an important partner in making this work possible. Captains, marinas, boat owners, mechanics, marine trades professionals, charter operators, educators and scientists all play a role.
Members can support our youth boating and Outdoor Access programs through financial contributions, in-kind donations of equipment and supplies, vessel or maintenance support, sponsorships, connections to maritime professionals and opportunities for students to learn about marine careers.
Most importantly, we are looking for partners who believe access to the water shouldn’t depend on whether a child’s family happens to own a boat.