Science in Service: Maine Water

The Baxter Academy of Technology and Science welcomes students in Grades 7-9 for a one-day workshop focused on PFAS in Maine.

Curiosity, Conscience, Clean Water

Maine has a water problem. It's invisible, it's widespread, and it's called PFAS. Join us for a hands-on, full-morning workshop where students will investigate Maine's forever chemical crisis using real science, living organisms, and creative communication.

Students will work like scientists, using planaria (small freshwater worms that are highly sensitive to water quality changes) to model how PFAS contamination affects living ecosystems. They will then test biochar as a filtration solution, explore Maine PFAS maps and data, and build evidence-based arguments for the best cleanup approach. The day wraps with student groups producing short videos making the case for how Maine should move forward.

The Day at a Glance

  • PFAS Kickoff: What are forever chemicals, and why do they matter in Maine?

  • Data Literacy Lab: Reading Maine's contamination maps

  • Hands-On Investigations: Planaria behavior lab and biochar filtration lab

  • Video Project: Build and film a 30 to 60 second scientific argument for Maine's best cleanup solution

  • Showcase and Debrief: Share findings and reflect on next steps

No prior lab experience required. Just curiosity, conscience, and a willingness to dig into a real problem.

 
Register today

When

April 22, 2026
9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Where

Baxter Academy for Technology & Science
185 Lancaster Street
Portland, ME 04101
View on Google Maps

Audience

Students in grades 7-9

Pricing 

Individual Registration: $25

Students should bring their own lunch