Each year, HRPK’s Estuary Lab educators transform the Hudson River into an outdoor classroom for K-12 students from all five boroughs—more than 7,000 joined us in 2018! By utilizing the Park’s 400-acre Estuarine Sanctuary as a living laboratory, field trips in HRPK are truly trips into the field for student scientists.
HRPK Estuary Lab field trips explore an ever-growing range of marine and environmental science topics. Several programs invite students to go wild for wildlife, examining Park habitats and species including birds, plankton, fish and crustaceans up-close. Catch and release fishing along the Park’s four-mile waterfront gives educators the opportunity to introduce young scientists to the Hudson River’s diverse fish population of over 70 different species including seahorses and striped bass.
Other programs engage students directly in community science as they take part in hands-on oyster restoration and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis—in both cases, contributing to active scientific research. This year, we’re also excited to introduce a new program focused on sustainability and climate change impacts for high school students, engaging a new generation of environmental stewards.
With programs tailored to the full range of K-12 grade levels, Estuary Lab’s field trips are designed to inspire and engage young scientists at any age—and students love them! It’s a great time to learn more about Estuary Lab field trips—registration for spring programs are open now!