William Floyd High School science students recently took part in the annual “A Day in the Life” project at Forge River Marina and Osprey Park. The event allowed students to carry out scientific research and study local ecosystems within the Mastic Beach community.
The main activities included a seining exercise where students collected biological samples to learn about biodiversity in the rivers. Students also measured physical characteristics of the river and recorded chemical data such as temperature, salinity, nitrates, and pH levels. In addition, groups created detailed site descriptions by mapping the area and collecting sediment samples.
“All of the data collected by the students during this activity will be shared and publicized through the Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Central Pine Barrens Commission. This data helps both organizations take note of changes that occur within each ecosystem over time and assess their overall health,” according to organizers.
The program is supported by several organizations including the Central Pine Barrens Commission, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and Brookhaven National Laboratory. These partners help bring educational opportunities about estuaries and ecosystems to students.
William Floyd High School science teachers Anya Swiss and Christopher Orlando led their classes during these activities. Ms. Swiss is also an advisor for the William Floyd High School Science Society, while Mr. Orlando advises for the Stony Brook STEP program.