Science In Process

Local scientists discussed their studies at the Coffin School, August 2010

Following up on their commitment to fund research on water quality in Nantucket Harbor, the Nantucket Community Association and ReMain Nantucket co-sponsored an event in which local scientists explained the variety of scientific studies that are being conducted in Nantucket Harbor during the summer of 2010.

The presentations focused on why and how the research is being conducted rather than specific results or conclusions.  "There are some superb studies that utilize the harbor as the laboratory," explained Melissa Philbrick, Executive Director of ReMain Nantucket.  "We want to showcase these efforts and help the public understand how these individual efforts can lead to a greater collective understanding of the natural resource which is our harbor."

Various water quality monitoring projects as well as scallop propagation, eel grass restoration, and horseshoe crab population studies will be presented.  "The quality of the water in the harbor is of critical concern to fishermen, scallopers, sailors, and all those who enjoy the harbor," says Nantucket Community Association Vice President Buzz Goodall.

Nantucket Community Association, a private not-for-profit organization, has been involved in raising money to support research relating to water quality in the Island's harbors and ponds and other subjects for many years. Most recently, NCA spearheaded a fundraising effort which provided the funds needed for the Town's Marine Department to conduct an in depth study of the quality of the water in the harbors and ponds.