2014 Summer Internships Available!

Summer internship positions on the Floating Classroom are now open!  We are looking for 4-6 high school aged youths with an interest in environmental science, and a desire to hone their communication skills.  Independent projects, boating skills, just a little fun. Info available at www.floatingclassroom.net.  Send inquiries and resumes to floatingclassroom@gmail.com. 

Spring 2013 On Cayuga...

We've had a busy spring on the lake, and we're looking forward to a great summer.  So far, spring seem to be a little behind schedule... pix and info coming up shortly!  You can help us keep track of Cayuga on one of our upcoming Eco-tours.  Check 'em out!

2012 Cayuga Lake Temperature Profiles!

As of November 2, Cayuga Lake has undergone its fall "turnover".  Cold water from deep in the lake is rising to the surface, and observers may have noted an "earthy" smell to the lake, as organic matter and nutrients have come with that deep, cold water!  The winds of tropical storm Sandy certainly muddied the waters, but data collected through the year, enabled us to anticipate this event. 

Below is a set of water temperature profiles, compiled from data collected by students throughout the year aboard the Floating Classroom's MV Haendel.  Data was collected using a calibrated Hydrolab (brand) remote sensor.  Our thanks to the City fo Ithaca Water Department and to Tompkins County Soil & Water for providing access to this equipment!

 

This image shows temperatures from the lake surface (top) to 40 meters, with depth increasing along the Y-axis.  Temperatures (in Celcius) are plotted along the X-axis, increasing as we go to the right.  Click on this image for a slide show of changes through the year!