A programme that teaches youngsters how to care for the environment has been given a $10,000 cash boost.

Waterstart, which provides students between the ages of 12 and 18 training in water-based disciplines, conservation and marine science, received the donation from the Garden Club of Bermuda.

The programme is based on Burt Island in the Great Sound and has taught more than 500 students in the past year. Current projects include shellfish restoration, woodland restoration, organic gardening and seagrass management.

Waterstart is currently working with the local community and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to protect island seagrass.

Phoebe Barboza, the operations and research manager for Waterstart, said: “Seagrasses are beautifully unique. They are the only flowering plants adapted to grow submerged in the sea and are extremely valuable and crucial species to the environment.

“These species should be protected to ensure the food sources, shelter and essential nursery areas they provide to commercial and recreational fishery species as well as many invertebrates living in seagrass communities remain.

“Our team is extremely lucky to be able to work towards the protection of these meadows whilst also providing a memorable hands-on experience for many students and community members.

“Thank you to The Garden Club of Bermuda for their incredible support and belief in our efforts to protect the environment and share our natural classrooms with all who join us at Waterstart.”