University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H announces the launch of virtual field trips (VFTs), an innovative way for youth learners to explore Maine’s thriving aquaculture industry. These immersive online experiences bring aquaculture to life, offering participants the chance to step inside cutting-edge facilities and learn directly from industry experts. Through the power of virtual reality and accessible browser-based tools, these trips highlight the processes behind sustainable aquaculture—no travel required.

“Virtual field trips can introduce learners to professionals and bring them to places that would otherwise be infeasible,” said Carla Scocchi, 4-H Youth Development Professional, in a news release. “We’re excited to use this technology to teach youth about Maine aquaculture, even when they’re unable to visit these facilities in-person.”

Accessible at no cost, the VFTs are designed to break down geographical and financial barriers, making high-quality, hands-on learning available to all. Educators, both formal and informal, can register online to receive a link to the VFTs. Each field trip also comes with complementary 4-H activity guides and lesson plans to help facilitate meaningful engagement with K-12 youth.

The first VFT currently available features the University of Maine Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research (CCAR), a large-scale, land-based aquaculture facility in Franklin. Additional virtual field trips are in development and will be rolled out in 2025 and 2026. These experiences will offer insight into seafood production, workforce development, career exploration and STEM concepts related to aquaculture technologies.

“The aquaculture industry continues to grow and significantly impacts Maine’s economy,” said Hannah Carter, associate provost for online and continuing education and dean of Cooperative Extension. “We are pleased that UMaine Extension 4-H can help expose youth to opportunities within this industry no matter where they are located across the state.”

Visit the program webpage to register for a virtual field trip. To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact Carla Scocchi, carla.scocchi@maine.edu or 207.667.8212. This initiative is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Maine Aquaculture Innovation Center, and SEA Maine.

About University of Maine Cooperative Extension

As a trusted resource for over 100 years, Extension has supported UMaine's land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and help grow the food-based economy. Extension also leads Maine’s 4-H program, the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in the state. 4-H programs are grounded in the belief that kids learn best by doing and are developed to fit a variety of backgrounds, interests, budgets and schedules. Participants complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement in a positive environment where they are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.