Nicholas Bonde’s Summer Experience on Lake Superior
Nicholas Bonde, an AP Chemistry instructor at Marshall High, had the unique opportunity to participate in the Shipboard Science Immersion Project aboard the EPA research vessel Lake Guardian this summer. This week-long experience allowed him to apply research methodologies in practice, alongside scientists and educators from the Wisconsin Sea Grant and other institutions.
Research and Hands-On Learning
During his time on the vessel, Bonde worked primarily in one of the ship’s labs, engaging in various research projects, particularly focused on larval fish diets and zooplankton communities. He was significantly involved in a photochemistry experiment that revolved around collecting and analyzing water samples from different locations in Lake Superior. This investigation aimed to understand how sunlight affects brown organic molecules, which enter the lake through runoff, and their impact on algal blooms.
Bonde expressed enthusiasm about integrating these advanced sampling techniques into his classroom instruction. He plans to utilize methods such as UV-Vis spectroscopy to study local runoff in the Maunesha River, enhancing students’ understanding of local aquatic ecosystems.
Future Collaborations and Projects
Bonde hopes to maintain connections with the scientists he met during the project and establish lasting collaborations with the Marshall Public Schools. He envisions applying his newfound skills in diverse class projects, including creating a native prairie and restoring a retention pond on school grounds. The goal is to not only connect these projects to local ecosystems but also enhance students’ awareness of environmental impacts.
The Shipboard Science Immersion Project, supported by several Sea Grant programs and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, aims to promote marine resource stewardship through education and research, making a significant impact on both teachers and students alike.
