Campers rowed out to explore the ecology of the river. During each rowing expedition on the river, using their new skiffs, campers tested the water using chemical tests, collecteed
river plants, and explored the ecosystem with nets and binoculars.
Dyke Marsh was the first of three destinations along the river. After walking through the wetland forest, observing rare plants and migratory birds such as warblers and osprey. Campers rode to
the peat bog at the front of the marsh. Wading through the rich peat, students discovered signs of severe shore erosion with ash trees falling into the river. What lies beneath the bog? Using a soil
core revealed compacted shredded plants that had accumulated there over generations.