Building Lakeside Community Connections Through Active Engagement

Oneida Lake near Syracuse is the largest waterbody within New York State, bordered by four counties.   A diverse collection of surrounding communities treasure the lake for its boating, fishing, and overall beauty and relaxing setting.  At the same time it is an economic engine for the region, supporting a range of businesses, lakeside home development, and tourism.  The Oneida Lake Association and Cornell Biological Field Station are important stewards for the lake and are key sources of science-based information for the public.  This is a crucial time for the lake with increased suburban development on the west end from the arrival of the microchip company Micron with billions in future investment.  

The intern will learn about emerging issues for Oneida Lake, work directly with educators and community groups to compile extension materials, and go out into the community to deliver this information and evaluate public satisfaction and concerns.

Roles and responsibilities 

The intern will:

• Experience first-hand the day-to-day scientific activities sampling fish, plankton and other aspects of the lake ecosystem at the Cornell Biological Field Station
• Curate and edit photos, interviews, and video footage of these activities that can be used in extension materials.
• Work with scientists at the field station, board members of the Oneida Lake Association, and 4H educators at the Madison County CCE office to learn the local issues and assemble relevant and engaging extension materials.
• Incorporate such content in our websites and social media feeds and monitor audience interactions and responses under staff guidance.
• Go out into the community circling the lake to provide materials and interview community members about their use of the lake, their values of this resource, and any concerns.   
• Develop an online tour of the region highlighting the lake ecosystem, the surrounding communities, and potential unique experiences for newcomers. 

Qualifications and previous coursework

This opportunity is available to non-graduating students in Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

• No prior coursework required.  
• Enthusiasm to learn new things and communication skills are important.  
• Confidence and desire for positive interactions with the public and peers.  
• Video editing, social media, and mapping skills a plus.  
• A driver's license is required as driving on behalf of the summer project will be required

Learning outcomes 

The successful intern will learn more about aquatic science and how field stations and community organizations are run.  Build communication skills.  Will learn how to develop educational materials and will be observing social-ecological connections within real life communities.