Herring Gut Coastal Science Center (HGCSC) invites community members, supporters, neighbors, and visitors to join anIce Cream Social and Ribbon Cutting Celebration on July 1, from 4 - 6 p.m., at the Herring Gut Coastal Science Center, 59 Factory Road, Port Clyde.

According to Herring Gut, in a news release, the event will commemorate the completion of two significant projects that enhance both the visitor experience and the preservation of local maritime heritage: the Touch Tank Renewal Project and the Bait Shack Restoration Project.

"As our nation marks 250 years of history, we are excited to celebrate important investments in our future while honoring the rich heritage of Port Clyde," said Sarah Oktay, executive director. "These projects strengthen our ability to connect people of all ages with Maine's coastal ecosystems and maritime traditions."

A New Touch Tank for Expanded Learning

The Touch Tank Renewal Project replaces HGCSC's existing touch tank with a larger, modern system designed to support increased capacity, improved animal care, and enhanced visitor engagement.

The upgraded exhibit includes advanced filtration, biocontrol, and chilling systems that provide more stable environmental conditions for marine organisms while reducing maintenance demands on staff. The new design also improves accessibility and allows more visitors to safely gather around the exhibit.

The expanded touch tank will support enhanced educational programming led by HGCSC educators, offering hands-on opportunities for visitors to explore Maine's coastal ecosystems and marine life.

Restoring a Piece of Port Clyde History

The restored Bait Shack represents more than a functional waterfront structure—it is a piece of local architectural history. The building was likely designed by Russell W. Porter (1871–1949), the renowned American artist, engineer, architect, cartographer, amateur astronomer, and Arctic explorer.

After his Arctic expeditions, Porter settled in Port Clyde, where he designed cottages, pursued farming, and became an integral part of the community. He married Alice Marshall, the local postmistress, and left a lasting architectural legacy throughout the region. The Bait Shack restoration preserves one of Porter's designs while creating an engaging space for visitors to learn about the area's working waterfront traditions.

Community Celebration

The July 1 event will feature:

• Ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Touch Tank and restored Bait Shack

• Ice cream social for community members and guests

• Opportunities to tour the new facilities

• Meet-and-greet with HGCSC staff and volunteers

• Information about upcoming educational programs and initiatives

The celebration is open to the public. RSVP at herringgut.org.

Located on the waterfront in Port Clyde, Maine, Herring Gut Coastal Science Center inspires curiosity, environmental stewardship, and community engagement through hands-on marine science education. Through immersive programs and experiences, HGCSC connects learners of all ages to the ecology, culture, and future of Maine's working coast.