CALLING ALL ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTISTS AND ARTISTS FOR A UNIQUE FIELD EXPERIENCE!
Peconic Community School, in partnership with the Citizen Science Learning Center and The Artist's Nest, will offer a unique week-long summer pondkeeping program for upper elementary students. This immersive program takes young explorers to dynamic field locations across the North Fork—from freshwater lakes like Laurel Lake and Marratooka Lake to Peconic Bay and Long Island Sound beaches—where they become "Pond Keepers" investigating the rich diversity of aquatic ecosystems.
Through hands-on, inquiry-based activities, participants test water quality, sample organisms with seine nets, and collect real scientific data while developing essential communication and observation skills. Students blend science with creativity by sketching, photographing, and journaling their discoveries, and learn to create maps using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This distinctive program inspires curiosity, environmental stewardship, and a deeper connection to Long Island's coastal and freshwater environments.
DATES: JULY 27 - JULY 31
HOURS: 9:30am - 12:30pm
AGES: Grades 4 - 6
TUITION: $450
Participants will meet at a different field location each day. Optional transportation available from and to Peconic Community School for an additional fee as space allows (maximum 6 participants).
Please reach out to Programs Director, Shannon Swanson, with any questions: sswanson@peconiccommunityschool.org.
About Bob Mozer and Citizen Science Learning Center:
Bob Mozer, a Certified Professional Geologist (AIPG) and experienced science educator, has over 23 years of experience in environmental consulting and 16 years in public education. He holds an MA in Geology from SUNY Oneonta and is skilled in geologic interpretation, GIS mapping, groundwater resource management, and environmental education. Bob founded the Citizen Science Learning Center, Inc. in 2023 and initiated the “Adopt-a-Pond” project to promote environmental stewardship.
About Tonito Valderrama and The Artist’s Nest:
Tonito Valderrama, an environmental artist and educator, integrates his Taino heritage and passion for conservation into his work through sculpture, murals, and installations. As Director of the Wilderness Traveling Museum, he promotes indigenous arts and environmental awareness across Long Island, contributing his creative expertise to the Citizen Science Learning Center.