Eighth graders from Christine Lamont's class at Dennis M. Kenney Middle School recently participated in an immersive educational experience at Rice Creek Field Station.

The event, dubbed “A Day in the Life of the Oswego River and the Finger Lakes,” provided students with a hands-on opportunity to explore and study the local ecosystem. Under the guidance of Lamont and environmental educators, students engaged in a series of activities designed to deepen their understanding of local water systems, environmental conservation, and the interconnectedness of regional ecosystems.

“Having the opportunity to take students out of the classroom and into the environment provides a unique and valuable learning experience,” said Dr. Lamont. “The Rice Creek Field Station event allows them to witness first-hand the importance of water quality and how our actions can impact the environment. It’s a day they will remember and a critical part of building their understanding of science in the real world.”

Throughout the day, students collected water samples, analyzed data, and recorded their findings, which helped strengthen their understanding of local waterways and encouraged environmental stewardship.

The program was made possible through a collaboration among the Sea Grant, RIT and Rice Creek Field Station at SUNY Oswego, as well as the Department of Environmental Conservation and Cornell Water Resources Institute. Program funding was provided by the Environmental Protection Fund, Ocean and Great Lakes Ecosystem Conservation Act.