Students create a learning tool for citizen scientists with Finger Lakes Phenology trail

Cornell University | Ithaca, NY

Phenology is the study of cyclic and seasonal natural phenomena, especially in relation to climate and plant/animal life. Studying these cyclical occurrences is key to managing invasive species, like the wooly adelgid, an aphid-like insect that attacks North American hemlocks. The Phenology Trail at the Roy H. Park Preserve in Freeville, NY is a tool to help hikers and citizen scientists gain a better understanding of the world around them and learn how to make phenological observations.

Story produced by Katie Adler, a Ph.D. candidate in Civil and Environmental Engineering; Ian Kranz, an undergraduate senior in Electrical and Computer Engineering; Janice Lee and Emma Williamson: TST BOCES New Visions Engineering High School Seniors, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Instruction provided by STEM SRL Connected Educators Julie Nucci: Adjunct Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, Cornell University, Nancy Coddington: Director of Science Content, Services, and Programming, WSKG, and David Syracuse: TST BOCES New Visions Engineering High School Teacher. This video was created as a part of ENGRG 3360: Developing STEM Storytelling Skills with WSKG Public Media and the PBS NewsHour at Cornell University in the S2019 semester.