b'N estled along the Des Moines Des Moines Window to the Sea: Inspiring Curiosity and Protecting Puget Soundwaterfront in the Redondo neighborhood, the MaST serves as a hands-on marine laboratory Center Aquarium at Highline Collegeand aquarium, connecting people of all ages to the wonders of Puget Sound. Each year, more than 20,000 visitors, students, and volunteers explore local marine life while learning how to protect the Salish Sea.Connecting the Community to The MaST Center is more than an Puget Soundaquariumits an educational hub that brings marine science to life. Thousands of students from schools across King and Pierce Counties participate in hands-on classes and field trips, gaining a deeper understanding of the regions unique ecosystem. Partnerships with Maritime High School and other local schools provide real-world STEM and research experiences, preparing students for future careers in science and conservation.Public programs like Shark in the Park, family craft days, and Marine Mammal Stewards events engage the community year-round, celebrating Des Moines identity as the Sixgill Shark Capital of the World while fostering curiosity and stewardship among all ages.Marine Research & Cons e MaST Center plays a critical roleand octopuses, contributing valuableand Highline Public Schoolshelp Th ervationin marine research and conservationdata to the scientific community whileadvance the centers mission of ocean across Puget Sound. Its Marine Mammaldeveloping hands-on research skills. stewardship. adStranding Network spans from BrownsCommunity Impact & Tourism Looking AhePoint in Tacoma to West Seattle, rescuing and studying seals, sea lions,With over 20,000 annual visitors,The MaST Center continues to grow, and porpoises. Through initiatives likethe MaST Center is one of Des Moineswith plans to expand paid internships, Pier Clear dives, the center has safelypremier waterfront attractions. It notcommunity exhibits, and partnership relocated thousands of animals duringonly draws tourists but also supportsprograms with the City of Des Moines dock removals, safeguarding fragilelocal businesses through events andand regional organizations. Its ongoing local ecosystems. collaborations. More than a hundredcommitment to education, access, and Students and community membersvolunteers and community partners environmental action ensures that residents also participate in research projectsincluding SR3, King County Library, theand visitors alike can experience and protect on species such as sixgill sharks, crabs,City of Des Moines, Seattle Southside,Puget Sound for generations to come.10|DES MOINES CITY CURRENTS|WINTER 2026'