A whale of a day!

Smithtown West College Marine Ecology students recently partnered with local environmental leaders to tackle the challenges facing the Long Island Sound and our oceans. Representatives from Citizens Campaign for the Environment and the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society led a deep dive into water conservation and protection of marine life sharing our waters, teaching students how reducing plastic use can have a direct impact on our local beaches.

The energy shifted to creativity as students began brainstorming STEAM-focused projects. These activities are being designed specifically for the 3rd graders at Accompsett Elementary, whom our students will be mentoring during the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum’s "Whale of a Day" event happening later this spring. (Yes, the life-sized, walk-through inflatable whale will be there!)

To cap off the experience, students connected with Long Island’s rich maritime history by constructing their own wooden boats—a tangible reminder of our island's heritage and our responsibility to protect its future.