The River Project

About

The River Project is a marine science field station based at Pier 40 in lower Manhattan. Support TRP here: https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/1398281

Story

The River Project is a marine science field station based at Pier 40 in lower Manhattan. Support TRP here: https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/1398281

Mission

The River Project is a marine science field station founded in 1986 at Pier 26 in Tribeca, on the lower west side of Manhattan, in New York City. We have been operating for the last three years from our new location at Pier 40, just north of our original location. The River Project helps to protect and restore the ecosystem of the Hudson River estuary through scientific research, hands-on environmental education, and urban habitat improvement.

Products

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS -

Field trips introduce students and teachers to marine science and issues of urban ecology through informative lectures on New York City waterway-related topics and hands-on activities at Pier 40 in Manhattan. The hands-on activities include use of water-testing equipment, fish traps aboard the Lilac, and viewing, studying and handling estuarine life forms. Students will learn about the morphology and physiology of the animals on display, and the importance of conservation in an urban setting. “Understanding biodiversity”, “What we can do to help” and “Form and function of native aquatic life” are examples of themes of the presentations. A small walking tour of the waterfront will be provided along with a discussion of the history and local ecology of the region. Visits are designed by The River Project staff to fit the ages, goals, and expectations of each participating group, and can be subject-specific upon request. The programs enable teachers and students of all ages to experience field science at work in an urban environment with a non-urban feel. For more information or to book a field trip at The River Project, contact Chris Anderson at [email protected] and visit www.riverprojectnyc.org for additional program details.

MARINE BIOLOGY INTERNSHIPS -

Interns in The River Project's Marine Biology Internship Program (MBIP) participate in environmental science research projects under the supervision of The River Project staff, with guidance from professional researchers who are recognized experts in their fields. Approximately 310 high school and college students participated in the MBIP from 1989 to 2009, studying urban wildlife, habitat, and local water quality.

The River Project is currently accepting interns for the MBIP on a case-by-case basis due to space constraints and dependent upon the specific interests of the student. For more information, contact Nina Zain at [email protected]

HUDSON RIVER FIELD STATION -

The River Project's marine biology field station is temporarily located at Pier 40, north of Pier 26, which is under construction. We hope to move back to Pier 26 once it is complete. Meanwhile, The River Project will provide access to the lab without fees for those doing relevant research projects by advance appointment. The lab features an 1,800-gallon aquarium system of free-flowing brackish water from the Hudson River that varies in salinity with the changing hours and seasons. Numerous freshwater and marine vertebrates and invertebrates are represented there. An ongoing oyster research project takes place in three large experimental holding tanks. There is limited space and appointments must be scheduled in advance. To arrange a visit, please call (212) 233-3030 or e-mail [email protected] for an appointment.