RTPI and SUNY JCC studying Spiny Softshell Turtles
This fall we have two interns from SUNY Jamestown Community College working with us on the study and research of the Eastern Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera) population present in the Chadakoin River, located mere moments from our campus in Jamestown, New York. The state-listed turtle is listed as “special concern” and we are thankful to have this nearby area where we have found them successfully nesting. The Chadakoin River has a history of being surrounded by development and industry, making contamination of various sorts and water quality major concerns. However, the...
Read MoreChadakoin River in downtown Jamestown, New York
This is the Chadakoin River in downtown Jamestown, New York. On one hand it is a waterway that has been surrounded by industry and development for decades. On the other hand it is a vital environmental hotspot, hosting species like the Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera), state-listed as a species of “special concern”. This is a very literal example of this dichotomy. With all of that said there are many reasons to be optimistic about the Chadakoin and other natural resources in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region! Later today I will post a blog entry about RTPI’s...
Read MoreTurtle time before autumn cold
Intensive surveys and research are underway this fall with SUNY JCC interns on the Spiny Softshell Turtles in and around Jamestown. Yesterday our crew stepped into their world, literally, and got wet in the Chadakoin River. It is time to get busy before we get any further into autumn! The first real blast of cold air will arrive this weekend. It’s now or never for field research…
Read MoreJamestown’s Waterways
Our local waterways are amazing resources and are home to many spectacular species. While the waterways that flow through Jamestown and beyond are not perfect, they are capable of supporting an abundance of lifeforms, including us! So next time you pass over a stream or take a drive over to Chautauqua Lake or Lake Erie, take a moment to appreciate all the water surrounding you and do your part to take care of this important and valuable resource.
Read MoreBiological Regionalism – Spiny Softshell Turtles
RTPI President Twan Leenders will lead a nature walk introducing participants to the Spiny Softshell Turtles inhabiting the Chadakoin River on September 15 from 5:00 – 6:00 PM. Meet in the parking lot of the Gateway Center, 31 Water Street, Jamestown, NY. Presented in partnership with Jamestown Community College to highlight Alberto Rey’s exhibit “Biological Regionalism”, which will be featured at Jamestown Community College’s Weeks Gallery August 25 – October 3, 2014. This is a free event open to the public and we hope to see you there! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach...
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