Happy summer and congratulations to all!  The Second Annual BOP-CCERS Research Symposium officially marks the completion of our first full year cycle of the CCERS grant and the BOP Schools and Citizen Science Program. The depth and diversity of student-led restoration research on display at this year's Symposium was truly remarkable- evidence of the deep engagement BOP Schools have with the broader restoration science community of New York Harbor. The dialogue between scientists, students, teachers and partners that culminated at the Symposium is now evolving rapidly and dynamically.  An increasing number of scientists have been reaching out to us to offer advanced research and training options through their labs and expertise- think genetic sequencing of oyster strains, sediment sampling for heavy metals, bacteriological wastewater monitoring, and more. These opportunities "stem" directly from the needs of the marine STEM community and New York Harbor itself.  For scientists and other Harbor professionals, it's a way to directly engage large numbers of public school students in their work and at that same time leverage our growing network of citizen scientists and increasingly powerful digital platform. 

This phenomenon is remarkable but it also makes perfect sense to me. As the BOP CCERS model develops, its accompanying resources (curriculum, field science manual, digital platform, etc.) become stronger and the community becomes more motivated and involved around the use of these resources. A perfect example of the principle of virtuous cycles! 

Here are just a few highlights of late:

The BOP “Curriculum and Community Enterprise for Restoration Science” model is now taking shape at an increasing rate.  In this world synergistic connections abound- now is the time to get involved!  Thanks for tuning in to newsletter issue #4 and see you in September!