STEM

Marine Studies Enrichment Program

• Marine Program Flyer

This program will serve to supplement and enhance concepts learned in the classroom with on-site interpretations and experimentation. This residential experience on eastern Long Island provides students with expansive discussions, lectures and demonstrations.

We are happy to say that we have once again secured the Dorothy P. Flint (Cornell 4 –H) Camp, overlooking the beautiful Long Island Sound in Riverhead, as our location. The camp is located on nearly 140 acres of woodlands, farmland and beachfront and sits at the gateway to Long Island’s East End where daily field studies will take place. The camp is operated by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County, licensed by the Suffolk County Department of Health and accredited by the American Camping Association.

Through daily field excursions, laboratory and field excercises, movies and slide presentations, students will develop a better understanding of ecological concepts. Students will investigate and study: physical and chemical oceanography, marine ecology, animal behavior, invertebrate zoology, marine fish, algae, seaside plants, birds, mariculture, man's impact on the marine environment and wetland conservation. The program is staffed by a teaching marine biologist who works in conjunction with participating school district teaching professional staff.

The Marine Studies Enrichment Program offers students a wonderful opportunity to learn about various marine environments. Students will visit salt marshes, sand dunes, rock jetties and sand flats to collect marine specimens and learn about the characteristics and importance of each ecosystem. Crabs, clams, polycheates, mussels, jellyfish and sea stars are among the organisms that will be observed in their natural habitat. Time will also be spent in the laboratory for dissections and lectures. Students will be expected to take notes in the field and laboratory, as well as keep a personal journal.

In addition to field work, students will visit a marine museum to learn about Long Island's storied whaling history as well as taking part in an actual fishing trip. Students will also visit the historic Montauk Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in New York State. Marine biologists from Long Island will lead the students in their studies.

The learning opportunities in this program are unique and far-reaching. Through teamwork and field experiences, students will gain insights into the unique problems faced by organisms as they survive in salty environments. Students who are prepared for the rigorous schedule will have an unforgettable experience.