SHSE Science Students Collect Data At Nissequogue River

Smithtown High School East science students take a trip to the Nissequogue River

Smithtown High School East science students visited the Nissequogue River as part of a STEM activity. Think Discovery Science Research students from Smithtown High School East, coordinated by East Science Research Coordinator, Maria Zeitlin, recently returned to conduct citizen science along the Nissequogue River. Part of a multi-school collaboration with Brookhaven National Laboratory, the Central Pine Barren Commission, and the NYS DEC, this annual STEM activity takes a longitudinal look at the health of the local estuary. 

Students worked in teams to collect data. One group used a seine net to catch and release fish, crabs and any organisms present in the water. Another group recorded physical measurements such as tidal movement, wind speed, and air and water temperatures. A site description was done by students who recorded GPS location values and collected a core sample of sand to be later analyzed at BNL for microplastics. Finally, a group of students conducted a chemical analysis for salinity, cloudiness, and contaminants such as nitrates and phosphates. 

According to Smithtown Central School District Director of Science, Dr. Stephanie O’Brien, this type of science activity helps “to create a culture that has benefits that extend well beyond the school walls.”

Photos courtesy of Smithtown CSD