Nauticus, The National Maritime Center is an educational and cultural maritime-based science center. In 1999, the Junior Scientist Club was developed as a pilot After School Education program for the Norfolk Public School District. Nauticus specifically tailored their environmental activities to reflect and reinforce the state-mandated Virginia Science Standards of Learning (SOL). The Junior Scientist Club originally targeted at-risk elementary and middle school students in 5th through the 7th grade.

Club members investigated the health of the Elizabeth River and the local oyster populations by learning how to conduct scientific research. The students monitor their own oyster float, care for the spat, screen for disease and parasites, and also release their cultured oysters on a nearby reef. The club members also developed their own story-board exhibits in order to educate visitors of the National Maritime Center.

According to the National Geographic Society, "The Junior Scientist Club of the National Maritime Center and Norfolk Public Schools is an outstanding example of a program that helps increase students' awareness of environmental issues and concerns. This award-winning program for 5th through 8th graders is designed to encourage students to improve their academic performance, increase their interest in science, engineering, technology, education, and museum management. We commend these young scientists for turning their attention to the health of the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay.

The Chesapeake Bay watershed is one of America's most treasured natural
resources. Congratulations to these young scientists for doing their part to
help protect it. They are truly fostering a love of the natural world in their
work to help save the oysters of the Elizabeth River. At no other point in
history will so many eyes be focused on the Bay watershed as will be in 2007
when we celebrate the 400th anniversary of John Smith's exploration of
Chesapeake Bay. National Geographic, an organization whose mission is to
increase global understanding and promote conservation of our planet through
exploration, research, and education, is proud to join SeaWorld, Busch Gardens,
and Fujifilm in recognizing Nauticus, the National Maritime Center, and the
Norfolk Public Schools with an Environmental Excellence Award for 2005."