The impact dredging has on Otago Harbour's rocky-shore communities was put under the microscope by Portobello school pupils yesterday.
The school is one of 11 schools participating in the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre and the Department of Marine Sciences' pilot study of the effects of Port Otago's deepening project on marine life.
Pupils participating in the Sediment and Seashore project, held at the marine centre in Portobello, will work with PhD marine scientists surveying the marine community by measuring the number of animals and plants in intertidal zones along the shores of the harbour until August.
Portobello teacher Sarah Luke said the project was particularly pertinent to children who lived near the harbour.
"This is all in our back yard.
"It is really important that they know about the happenings of the harbour rather than just passively watching.''
Pupils from Broad Bay School and Mt Hutt College also visited the centre yesterday, learning about "Creatures Features'' and small animals.
Marine centre director Sally Carson said the centre would remain on site after the former Portobello aquarium is demolished in June.
"The only building being demolished is the former aquarium, and this will have no impact on school or educational programmes at the centre.''
