Scajaquada Creek Environmental Science Lab (SCESL)

Nestled in the heart of the region, Scajaquada Creek has been a vital lifeline and a center of community life since the time of the Haudenosaunee people, bearing witness to centuries of history and ecological change. Its name, a lasting tribute to Phillip Kenjockety, a local Indigenous figure, encapsulates the deep-rooted connection between the land and its first inhabitants. The creek has not only served as a crucial natural resource but also as a symbol of resilience and cultural significance, reflecting the enduring legacy of the people who have lived alongside it.

Over the years, Scajaquada Creek has faced significant challenges due to human activity, with pollution, urban development, and industrial runoff taking a toll on its natural beauty and ecological health. Once a thriving ecosystem rich in biodiversity, the creek has been impacted by contaminants, leading to degraded water quality and loss of habitat for many species. This environmental degradation not only disrupts the delicate balance of the creek's ecosystem but also diminishes the cultural and recreational value that it has held for the community. The plight of Scajaquada Creek serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact human actions can have on natural waterways, underscoring the urgent need for concerted conservation efforts and sustainable practices to restore and protect our invaluable environmental heritage.

At the heart of the Scajaquada Creek Environmental Science Lab (SCESL), our mission is dedicated to studying the impacts of human activity on Scajaquada Creek and collaborating closely with stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to its restoration. Our goal is to harness the power of education, research, and community engagement to not only understand the challenges facing the creek but also to implement practical solutions that will help revive its ecological health. By bringing together students, scientists, local residents, and policymakers, we aim to create a unified effort that can reverse the damage done and ensure the creek's vitality for future generations. Through this collaborative endeavor, the SCESL stands as a beacon of hope, symbolizing the potential for positive change when communities come together to care for their natural environment.

To initiate our efforts towards the restoration of Scajaquada Creek, we will embark on a comprehensive monitoring program focusing on key environmental indicators: pH levels, dissolved oxygen content, conductivity, and water temperature, along with regular testing for E. coli. These parameters are critical for assessing the creek's current state, identifying pollution sources, and understanding the overall impact of urban runoff and other contaminants. This data-driven approach will not only provide us with a clearer picture of the creek's health but also lay the groundwork for developing targeted restoration strategies. Through this project, we aim to foster a deeper connection between our students and their local environment, empowering them with the knowledge and tools necessary to make a tangible difference in their community's ecological well-being.