Week 8, July 10th: Winding Down
July 12th, Wednesday:
This week was a slow one. With Dr. Pinou away again, Emily and I had to take her place with the Finding Our Way summer program for middle school children. Emily and I spent our time today and Thursday assisting the teachers with the program in Dr. Pinou's absence. Unfortunately, this took time away from our actual internship, but we managed to make progress later in the week regardless.
July 14th, Friday:
Today was one of the more interesting days of Dr. Pinou's summer program. The group went on a trip to the Shepaug Hydrostation, a dam between Lake Zoar and Lake Lillinonah. This was of particular interest to me, as I am interested in becoming an environmental engineer that specifies in renewable energy. While hydroelectric energy is a bit controversial, I believe it is significantly better than fossil fuels.
Lake Lillinonah and Zoar share many similarities. Both are infected by Eurasian Milfoil, as well as are being used for hydroelectric energy. The First Light employees at the dam expressed their concerns about zebra mussels, another serious ailment harming North East waters. Although Candlewood Lake is currently zebra mussel free, there have been numerous scares.
For those unfamiliar, Zebra Mussels are yet another invasive species that have found their way into North America. These creatures will attach themselves to any possible surface, creating a safety hazard to people, boats, animals, and even fish. In addition, they will filter out so much dissolved oxygen that it
makes it difficult for other lake life to survive.
Photos: Lake Zoar (Top)
Lake Lillinonah (Bottom)
Although these issues plaguing our lakes seem serious, whether it's Zebra Mussels, Blue-Green Algae, or Eurasian Milfoil, they all have remedies. It is up to the community to elect leaders and take action to protect these valuable ecosystems.
Despite the diversion to our internship via Dr. Pinou's program, our research is approaching its final steps. As such, Emily and I are preparing a presentation to share our findings to the community! As of now, it will take place on August 1st around 7 pm on Westconn's Midtown Campus. Exact times and locations will be posted later, so be sure to check back for that!
