Tag Archives: service learning

Getting our Feet Wet: Winter Waterfowl Survey

Posted on November 29, 2011 by Chrissy Word | Leave a comment | on-water group programs

Satellite Academy service learning interns at Rocking the Boat get their feet wet at Pugsley Creek Park observing winter waterfowl. The park is currently undergoing restoration including installation of native grasses called spartina that will benefit native birds and other wildlife.  The interns are collecting data as a part of a 5-year monitoring project following the restoration.  The data will be used by scientists and technicians at the Natural Resources Group of the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation.  The views are beautiful not all easily accessible since the site is not yet fully open to the public.  One student, Jose, said it’s “like taking a ride on the Magic School Bus!”

Rocking the Boat’s Service Learners

Posted on November 18, 2011 by Chrissy Word | Leave a comment | on-water group programs

The Satellite Academy Service Learning group is a program of Rocking the Boat’s On-Water Groups Program.  This group of 8 high school students are participating in an extended program in which they assist in Rocking the Boat’s environmental restoration projects while earning high school science credit.  This semester they have been trained to monitor Bronx River water quality and oyster gardens.  They will also complete a winter waterfowl survey for the Natural Resources Group of the Parks Department and build nest boxes for local tree swallows.  The interns can use this experience for college applications and resumes.  For them, science has never been like this!