Evinrude donates engines to inspire young boaters
Evinrude recently announced a donation of two, 150 horsepower Evinrude E-TEC outboard engines to the Environmental Studies Center in Jensen Beach, Fla.
The Environmental Studies Center (ESC), operated by the Martin County Public School System, offers students environmental education through hands-on field investigations.
The E-TEC motors will power the River Scout, a 30-foot T-Craft that serves as a floating classroom for 5th and 6th graders.
“We are grateful to the Ralph Evinrude Test Center (RETC) in Florida and the entire team at Evinrude for the generous donation of these new engines,” said John Vanilla. captain of the ESC River Scout. “We were in desperate need of replacement motors and, without Evinrude’s assistance, would have a hard time keeping our program going for our students.”
The donated engines were part of an ongoing U.S. EPA emissions test program, which evaluates engine emissions from boats operated in the field.
The ESC accumulated hours on the engines in preparation for comprehensive engine environmental compliance testing.
Evinrude is committed to supporting educational programs, such as the ESC, and inspiring new generations of boaters through community partnerships.
Students enrolled in the ESC hands-on educational program have the opportunity to participate in real-world scientific processes, such as examining mangrove communities, discovering saltwater grassflat organisms, studying the effects of tides, and collecting and testing samples which indicate overall health of waterways.
“We couldn’t think of a better placement than with the Environmental Studies Center,” said Jeff Wasil, Evinrude engineering manager in emissions testing, certification and regulatory development. “Their commitment to education provides students with a life-long appreciation for the natural environment and introduces them to the joys of recreational boating.”
