Harbor Country Day Students Become “Citizen Scientists” at Nissequogue River

LongIsland.com

Upper School students explore river’s ecosystem and collect and analyze data.

Print Email

HCDS students gather fish with seine net.

Photo by: Harbor Country Day School

On Friday, October 4, upper school students from Harbor Country Day School, an independent day school for children in preschool through 8th grade, experienced A Day in the Life of the Nissequogue River. The visit was part of a comprehensive program, coordinated by the Central Pine Barrens Commission, Brookhaven National Laboratory’s Portal to Discovery, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and Suffolk County Water Authority, wherein students from across Long Island engaged in hands-on science exploration on Long Island’s major river systems. 
 

HCDS students analyze invertebrtes and record data.
 
During a Day in the Life of the Nissequogue River, Harbor Country Day students used genuine field techniques to analyze the river and its ecosystem. They gathered and examined fish and other aquatic life, collected water and invertebrate samples, developed a biodiversity inventory of the riparian zone, and analyzed water chemistry -- all as a means to better understanding and protecting Long Island’s river and estuary ecosystems. 
 

HCDS students collect and analyze samples.
  
“By taking part in this fantastic program, our students have a unique opportunity to develop a firsthand appreciation for and knowledge of Long Island’s precious natural resources,” said Harbor Country Day Head of School John Cissel. “This real-world, hands-on learning leads to a much deeper understanding of the subject matter, and it’s an experience the children will remember for years.”
 

HCDS students prepare to collect water sample.
 
About Harbor Country Day School
Founded in 1958 by conscientious parents, Harbor Country Day School is an independent, co-educational day school for children from preschool through 8th grade situated in St. James’ Village of Head of the Harbor. The school employs a whole-child approach to education, wherein its rigorous curriculum is supported by a broad program in its academic, athletic, advisory, and visual and performing arts departments designed to develop all aspects of each child's talents and interests. Harbor Country Day School’s summer camp program, Camp Harbor, is among the leading summer camp programs on Long Island. The school’s mission to “cherish childhood, cultivate wonder, and inspire confident learners and leaders” underscores every child’s experience at Harbor Country Day School and ensures that all of its graduates are prepared to lead fulfilling lives filled with wonder, confidence, and many successes.
 
Harbor Country Day School is chartered by the New York State Board of Regents and is accredited by and a member of the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS). It is a non-sectarian, nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code governed by a self-perpetuating board of trustees.  For more information, visit www.hcdsny.org.