Hamilton College '15
It's amazing to think that a little over two months ago I was just beginning my internship with North and South Rivers Watershed. This summer I gained valuable experience and a greater understanding of the ecological relationships within the river and the watershed.
Through my internship, I had the opportunity to work on a variety of field projects with ecologist Sara Grady. Fellow interns Margo, Sara, and Alex and I assisted with multiple projects including collecting samples for an ongoing experimental study of dock shading impacts, analyzing samples to determine the ecological effects of harbor alterations, and completing surveys of Phragmites and other invasive species in the surrounding harbors. While the summer began with Sara patiently instructing and informing us on proper techniques and scientific names, we gained the knowledge and confidence to conduct the surveys independently. Not only have I successfully developed navigation skills necessary to get me to the various locations, but I can also correctly identify Japanese knotweed invasive species while driving!
A significant aspect of my internship was conducting the preliminary research for potential shellfish restoration in the North and South Rivers. Historically blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) had a significant presence in both rivers, but there are currently significantly decreased populations. I conducted field surveys to determine current shellfish populations in the North and South Rivers, held interviews with government officials regarding existing regulations, and discussed the experiences from similar restoration projects in the Bronx River and Martha's Vineyard. The information I gathered will be used in NSRWA's efforts to establish new blue mussel populations in the rivers for water purification and habitat remediation. My research exposed me to the complexity of federal regulations surrounding water resources and the influence of minor changes in ecological factors. It was fascinating to gain an understanding of the necessary steps for such a project, and I look forward to following NSRWA's development of this project in the following years. 
I greatly value the friendships that I made during my internship and owe a great thanks to all those who assisted me throughout my time with NSRWA. Sara H., Alex, Margo, and I had a lot of fun throughout the summer, from playing with squirt guns at the Great River Race to frequent ice cream stops after working in the field. Janet Fairbanks, Joe Stradzes, and Russel Clark deserve additional thanks for providing their time, knowledge, and boats that allowed me to conduct the necessary studies in my research of existing shellfish habitats. I am so grateful for my experience with North and South Rivers Watershed Association and look forward to hearing of the continued successes of the organizations and other interns. It's not a 'goodbye' as I leave for college, it's more of a "I'll see you soon' and I can't wait until the next time I'm on the rivers. 
