​Restoration and Observation by Windham Ashland Jewett Science Club Members

The last two sessions of Windham-Ashland-Jewett’s (WAJ) Science Club have been filled with experimentation and observation. 4-H Natural Resource Educator, Andrew Randazzo and Deb Valerio, WAJ teacher offered enriching sessions on submerged aquatic vegetation and stream ecology. Both projects reflect the science club’s members’ exploration into citizen science.

As part of a citizen science restoration project with the Department of Environmental Conservation students were able to grow out water celery and collect data on its’ growth. At the end of the program the water celery will be planted in the Hudson River at Cohotate Preserve, thanks to support from Greene County Soil and Water which maintains the preserve. The water celery grown by these students will serve important biological functions such as providing aquatic habitat and helping to control erosion.

The students’ stream ecology observations were an equally important inquiry into citizen science data collection. These young scientists learned how to use aquatic macro-invertebrates as a bio-indicator for stream health. The data they collected provides meaningful information on the status of the stream.

Each of these experiences helps the science club’s participants better understand our natural resources and how they can play an active role in conservation. Such learning would not be possible without the generous financial support of The Windham Foundation. Their support has enabled the science club to run for many years, offering young people an exciting chance to learn about the natural world.

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. The programs provided by this organization are partially funded by monies received from the Counties of Columbia and Greene.

4-H is New York’s only youth development program directly connected to the technological advances and the latest research at Cornell University. 4-H participants learn leadership, citizenship and life skills through hands-on projects in three primary program areas: science and technology; healthy living; and citizenship. To find out more about 4-H and youth programs in Columbia and Greene Counties, contact us at 518-828-3346 or Columbiagreene@cornell.edu or visit our website, www.ccecolumbiagreene.org . You can also “Like” us on Facebook…Cornell Cooperative Extension of Columbia and Greene Counties.

Photo Caption: WAJ Students Map Potential Macro-Invertebrate Habitat

Last updated July 3, 2019