Today, we traveled to Newton Creek, a park in the Camden County system. We met a nice, enthusiastic man by the name of Michael Hogan. Mr. Hogan works for the South Jersey Land and Water Trust, a nonprofit organization that protects and preserves resources within southern New Jersey watersheds. Our first challenge was to go on a one and a half hour long walk on the creek’s shoreline. In groups of two, we retrieved harmful debris, using provided pinchers, gloves, and trash-bags.
As we retrieved bottles and grocery bags and styrofoam cups, Mr. Hogan and his associate, Marisa, informed us about the local wildlife and environmental concerns, such as nitrogen contamination from landscaping fertilizers. After the walk, we made it back to the bus for snacks. Then, Mr. Hogan educated us on the different species of bugs and plants native to South Jersey.
We examined Newton Creek on a biological basis. Marisa and Mr. Hogan explained how the type and population of insects in the water can meaningfully indicate the health of the ecosystem. So, we sorted through buckets of scooped water to find mayflies and scuds. We were given the incredible opportunity of asking questions about his experience, and how a college-trained artist found his way to working for an environmental group. He was incredibly informed at hand about the topic, as his passion and friendships over the year have thoroughly educated him.
Afterwards, we were given a small break where we played on a jungle gym. Then, our squad made our way back to the bus and ate some lunch. But right before, an elderly man who had been listening in on the talk started yelling at Mr. Hogan about how everything he said was false. Mr. Hogan smiled, replying that he believed in science and only wanted to help protect the land and water he loves.
Signed,
Hunter, Felisa, Jordan, Blake, and Michael