WS Commerdinger Jr County Park and Preservation Society's Junior Board Vice President Teams Up with Local Environmental Groups

The WSC Jr. County Park and Preservation Society’s Junior Board Vice President, Isabella Martinalbert, joined the Sachem North AP Environmental Science and Envirothon students as they worked alongside professionals from the NY Department of Environmental Conservation, NY State Parks, and NY Sea Grant to collect data for an ongoing tidal creek restoration project, as well as be a part of “A Day in the Life of the Nissequogue River,” a collaboration between 11 Suffolk County schools and local environmental agencies to get a snapshot of the ecological health of the entire Nissequogue River watershed, all within one day.

According to Monica Marlowe, teacher and project coordinator from the Sachem North Science Department, “Sachem North students have been collecting data for the Sunken Meadow Creek restoration for the past five years, with results showing an increase in diversity and abundance of LI Sound fish and shellfish utilizing the restored habitat.  This successful restoration project is a great example for our students of how ecological damage caused by humans can be reversed through scientific endeavors.”

Through this trip, students were able to experience authentic fieldwork, make contacts with environmental science professionals, as well as experience the ecology of the Long Island Sound.  Ms. Marlowe is hoping that by immersing students in hands-on, authentic field research they will be more likely to continue scientific engagement and environmental advocacy in their future.

The WSC Jr. County Park and Preservation Society is hoping to continue to work with local groups to help preserve our local environment and its history while encouraging today’s youth to get involved with the process.