Updated: September 19, 2025
By Willie Lantz , Philip Malone , Karen Wood , Amy Lang , Brad Hartle , Mark DeMorra , Amanda Wahle , Mary Elizabeth Bissell , Aimee Cristy , Bobbi Hudson , Thomas Hutson , and Jessica Mellon

<EC-2025-0751  |  September 2025

Investigating Oysters 4-H Guide to Underwater Science Activities for Youth

The “Investigating Oysters” underwater science activity booklet is an educational component of the Smart, Sustainable Shellfish Aquaculture Management (S3AM) program. S3AM is a nationwide, multi-institutional, USDA-funded project that uses smart technology to increase farming efficiency, economic viability, and environmental sustainability of oyster aquaculture. This guide provides young people with an introduction to oysters and an overview of underwater robotics through engaging activities that connect to the future of oyster harvesting. The activities included in this booklet are a virtual oyster dissection, experiments in buoyancy and propulsion, and a guide to building the 4-H SAM underwater robot.

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The cover page of "Investigating Oysters" features crates of oyster shells on the docks of Horn Point Laboratory along the Choptank River in Cambridge, MD. Sam the Oyster, a cartoon figure, is ready to guide readers through an exciting journey of aquaculture. Additionally, a yellow Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) is included to simulate the underwater oyster harvesting process. A detailed, step-by-step construction guide will be provided later in the booklet.