Sachem students have been involved with the planning and execution of the Sunken Meadow Marsh Restoration since 2010.
Through the efforts of Sachem North science teacher Monica Marlowe, one of 10 supervisors on the project, she was able to gather a team of volunteers from Sachem for the project through Save the Sound again recently.
The newly planted vegetation in Sunken Meadow Creek will help restore the Long Island Sound by providing better habitat for fish and birds, flood protection for nearby communities, and increased water filtration, especially excess nitrates and sediment, according to Marlowe.
The planting is only one component of the long-term restoration plan, also including fish passage, and green infrastructure improvements.
“As an educator, I see tremendous value in involving our students in this long-term project,” said Marlowe. “It provides a very memorable opportunity to engage in hands-on learning, focused on the ecological importance of estuaries, specifically one of the largest coastal wetlands on the North Shore of Long Island.”
“By involving students in authentic case studies such as this, they can better understand and retain knowledge, as well as take ownership and responsibility for local natural areas. Furthermore, these students are much more likely to continue environmental stewardship, advocacy, and scientific research in their future.”
