April 18, 2026 | 10:00 AM- 11:00 AM

Growing native wetland plants for coastal restoration workshop

A free event for anyone interested in growing native wetland plants!

Join the Native Plant Producer Network at the Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve for a workshop on Growing Native Wetland Plants for Coastal Restoration!

Learn about the program, native plant species, opportunities to get involved, and key coastal ecology issues in the Gulf. This in-person workshop will offer valuable knowledge and hands-on insights for anyone interested in protecting and restoring our coastal environments through native plant production.

At the Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve | 6005 Bayou Heron Rd, Moss Point, MS 39562

April 21, 2026 | 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM

Homeschool Learning Lab

Topic: Nesting Shorebirds

Audubon Delta will provide an overview about the Mississippi Coastal Stewardship Program and their mission to protect coastal bird species that utilize Mississippi’s beaches and barrier islands with a spotlight on the beach-nesting bird, the Least Tern. Attendees will play a fun game of “Jeop-birdy!” as a way to engage with the attendees and learn more about bird conservation.

At the MSU Coastal Research & Extension Center | 1815 Popp’s Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532

May 30, 2026 | 8:00 AM- 9:30 AM

Sand Jam Beach cleanup

Join us for a beach cleanup at Pascagoula Beach Park before the Sand Jam celebration!

Sand Jam – Forces of Nature is a free annual summer event celebrating Mississippi’s native wildlife, environment, and heritage. Help us kick things off by removing litter from the beach and making a positive impact before the festivities begin.

This is a family-friendly event, and all ages are welcome. We hope to see you there on May 30 from 8:00 to 9:30!

At Pascagoula Beach Park

June 8-12, 2026 | 8:00 AM- 3:00 PM

REGISTRATION CLOSED | Mississippi Student Naturalist camp

REGISTRATION CLOSED, ALL SPOTS HAVE BEEN FILLED

Calling all students ages 14–17! Join us for an exciting 5-day summer camp exploring the incredible ecosystems of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Campers will discover the animals and plants these habitats support, learn how these ecosystems are managed, and dive into hands-on activities that highlight real volunteer opportunities. Along the way, students will build a deeper connection to the coast and be inspired to become stewards who help preserve and protect these vital ecosystems for the future. Students will gain the certification of Student Naturalist upon completion of the camp.

At the MSU Coastal Research & Extension Center | 1815 Popp’s Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532

June 15-19, 2026 | 9:00 AM- 3:30 PM

2026 GRITS STEM summer Camp

Open to high school juniors and seniors!

FREE EVENT | During this hands on week, students will build real world skills used in coastal science and restoration projects, including living shoreline construction. Participants will gain experience in boat driving and trailering, drone operations, RTK GPS technology, plant identification, soldering, wave energy measurement, and more. Campers will also enjoy a boat trip to the Mississippi barrier islands and learn about exciting STEM career pathways from professionals in the field.

GRITS is an incredible opportunity for students to develop practical skills, explore STEM careers, and earn a certificate that will strengthen resume and college applications.

At the MSU Coastal Research & Extension Center | 1815 Popp’s Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532

June 22-25, 2026 | 8:00 AM- 3:00 PM

2026 Teacher Workshop

Join the Coastal and Marine Extension Program for their third annual collaborative teacher workshop. Our in-house organizations, the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Program, Program for Local Adaptation to Climate Effects (PLACE), and Mississippi Sound Estuary Program will be leading an engaging, hands-on workshop that highlights our education/ outreach programs focused on educating students about conservation, restoration, and environmental stewardship. Earn 2.6 CEUs for completing the workshop!

At the MSU Coastal Research & Extension Center | 1815 Popp’s Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532

July 5-11, 2026

Investigating Coastal Biodiversity: A hybrid german american field camp

We’re thrilled to team up with POCACITO for the annual German-American Investigating Coastal Biodiversity Camp — a FREE, week-long adventure at Camp Wilkes in Biloxi!

This unique international camp brings together students from Mississippi and Germany to explore coastal ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship — all in a vibrant, hands-on, and culturally diverse setting.

At the Camp Wilkes | 2109 Camp Wilkes Rd., Biloxi, MS 39532