On Tuesday, October 22, 2019, Vails Gate STEAM Academy students participated in a yearly event- A Day in the Life of the Hudson River.

Mrs. Espinoza and Mrs. Colon-Pena's 5th grade students became "scientists" for a day, collecting and analyzing real field data during hands-on exploration of the Hudson River Estuary. They were among more than 3,000 students and teachers from New York City to Troy that participated in this valuable yearly event, with Vails Gate students stationed at Kowawese Park in New Windsor.

They partnered with Black Rock Forest to collect scientific data of the tidal Hudson to create a snapshot of the river at our designated part of the river. The students examined both the physical and chemical aspects of the river with a range of equipment. They learned how to test for dissolved oxygen levels, temperature, turbidity, & salinity of the river. They also recorded observations, took core samples, monitored the tide, and identified fish caught in a seine net. Participation in 'A Day in the Life ' is a great way to inspire our students to become future scientists, as this is real-world data that enables our students to help the Department of Environment Conservation to monitor the health of the Hudson River.