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Welcome to the Coasts and Communities Open Course, My name is Anamarija Frankic, and I will be
one of your instructors for this five-week course.
This first week you are going to learn about natural aspects of our coasts and watersheds.
We are going to take you to different unique places in Massachusetts.
We will introduce you to our faculty and their research. You will learn about the basic geological
laws and principles, the formation of coastlines, their rocks and minerals.
On Nantucket Islands you will explore how how land mass was formed by glacial movements,
and how the island's changing coastline is exposed to storms and erosion. You will also
learn how beaches and coastal habitats were formed, and how they adapt to constant changes.
You will see beautiful salt marshes, eel grass beds and shellfish species unique to each
costal habitat.
This week we will also focus on watersheds, an essential part of our coastal environment.
You will explore one watershed by visiting the Charles River, and learn about hydrological
cycle, biodiversity and ecosystem goods and services, each of which contribute to healthy
water systems. Our goal is to peak your interest and inspire you to explore natural environments
around you.
We hope you will enjoy this first week. We look forward to hearing from you, and to sharing
your coastal stories and images.