The Scajaquada Creek Environmental Science Lab (SCESL) is officially in full swing! As part of our ongoing CASCADE project, students are getting hands-on experience exploring the science behind water quality, pollution, and sustainability.
In our most recent session, students investigated plastic density, a key factor in understanding how plastics move through waterways and contribute to pollution. By experimenting with different types of plastic and observing their buoyancy, students gained insights into why certain plastics end up in different parts of our environment—and why microplastics have become such a pervasive issue.
Last session, we laid the foundation for this by learning about the different types of plastic, classifying them based on their properties, and discussing their environmental impact. These early lessons are setting the stage for deeper exploration into water pollution and mitigation strategies.
What’s Next?
Next week, students will take their learning a step further by building a groundwater table. This hands-on model will help them visualize how water moves underground, how pollutants can infiltrate aquifers, and how human activities impact groundwater quality. Understanding these processes is crucial for protecting water resources, especially in urban areas like Buffalo.
Real Research Begins Soon!
In the next couple of weeks, the Buffalo Sewer Authority will be installing Littatraps in the area around the school. These specialized devices are designed to capture plastic waste before it enters storm drains and flows into waterways. Once installed, the real research can begin! Students will analyze the types of plastic waste being collected, gaining firsthand data on what pollutants are making their way into Scajaquada Creek and, ultimately, the Great Lakes. This research will provide valuable insights into local pollution sources and contribute to larger efforts to protect freshwater ecosystems.
Stay tuned for updates as our students continue their journey in environmental science!
