American Littoral Society

Students from North Star Academy in Newark and the students from the Urban Trecker program in Camden came together for three days on Sedge Island. Kayaking on the first day was a challenge, as most of the students had never paddled in a salt marsh or on open water before. As we passed close to the Peregrine Falcon tower we noticed that the adults were quite active on the platform. After watching for several minutes, we observed one of the juveniles as it came out of the igloo and began stretching its wings as it prepares for its first flight. This was especially exciting for all the students as they learned that falcons are now living on tall buildings and other structures in the urban areas they inhabit.

One of the most unique aspects about the Littoral Society program takes place on the last day when students give short oral reports on animals they have learned about while they were on Sedge. This is a unique opportunity for these students not only to talk about a wild animal that interests them, but also to explain why the animal has significance for them. After the other students listened to the presentations they asked questions and gave feedback making this a great learning experience for everyone

Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science

Fog, drizzle, and rain did little to deter four groups of freshmen from MATES. The water was not as warm as it has been in past years but these students got right in when they were seining and clamming. The teachers also spent time in the water as they free dove in the thorofare south of the McClain House. When the conditions are tough, the tough get going. These MATES are tough!

The mussels are still growing fast and we were able to eat some of these in addition to the clams we caught. A great addition to our dinner was a beautiful fillet of Striped Bass that had been recently caught by teacher Dave Werner. Taylor, a senior at MATES and a new intern at Sedge for this summer, was terrific as she led groups in a variety of activities. Perhaps even more importantly, she was very calm when on one of our return trips from the Island Beach dock in the jon boat we became temporarily confused in the dense fog.