Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/17
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience for this project includes K-12 teachers and students throughout New York who are working with Cornell scientists to help monitor for invasive fish species in local waterways. Students throughout the state have benefited from the educational opportunities provided by the program, including students at schools serving minority and economically disadvantaged populations traditionally underrepresented in STEM activities. The active engagement of student citizen scientists in meaningful scientific research with real world implications increases student understanding of important environmental and economic impacts associated with invasive species and stimulates overall interest in science. Teachers have benefited from the availability of kits and curriculum easily integrated into their science classes, and from workshops providing information about the project. In addition, the target audience for this project includes freshwater fisheries, aquaculture, and the sport fishing industry that are increasingly threatened by invasive fish species, as well as people and communities economically dependent on healthy waterways. All of these groups will benefit from the development of an expandable economical approach to monitoring invasive species and from the increased knowledge gained in this pilot project about the range, distribution, and abundance of invasive fish throughout the state. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Training and professional development opportunities have been provided through NY State Master teachers' workshops at Cornell University and workshops specifically targeted to elementary and middle school teachers. In addition, workshops for students in the Syracuse University science education program and the Binghamton University science teacher program have introduced pre-service teachers to all aspects of the program and provided an example of "hands-on" teaching. Additional training and professional development opportunities have been provided through presentations at various professional meetings, including presentations at the following conferences: the "Wildlife Health Cornell" retreat, the New York Invasive Species Research Institute Environmental DNA Workshop: Research Frontiers & Management Perspectives in New York State, the CCE Inservice conference, and the Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Information regarding the program has been disseminate in multiple ways. 1. We have engaged the public through newspaper, television, and online articles about our program, including the following: Cornell Chronicle article on NYC students invasive fish monitoring activity 10/24/17 http://news.cornell.edu/stories/2017/10/nyc-students-catch-science-bug-help-cornell-scientists Spectrum TV news report on Brooklyn school using invasive fish monitoring kits 10/25/2017 http://www.ny1.com/nyc/brooklyn/news/2017/10/25/brooklyn-students-become-scientists-for-the-day College of Veterinary Medicine news report on the invasive fish monitoring program 2/24/2017 https://www2.vet.cornell.edu/news/20170224/cvms-hanley-cassidy-and-casey-turn-schools-across-new-york-keep-invasive-species-bay "The 74" online news website focusing on education issues in the United States article on invasive fish program 11/8/2017 https://www.the74million.org/article/brooklyn-high-schoolers-are-citizen-scientists-helping-cornell-combat-dire-enemy-invasive-fish/ Journal of the American Veterinary Association news article on the invasive fish monitoring program https://www.avma.org/News/JAVMANews/Pages/170515j.aspx April 26, 2017 Newspaper article on Perry High school students search for invasive species 6/16/2016 http://www.thedailynewsonline.com/bdn01/perry-students-search-for-invasive-species-20160616 Phys.org science news reporting website posting of the College of Veterinary Medicine news report on the invasive fish monitoring program 2/24/2017 https://phys.org/news/2017-02-york-schools-cornell-local-waterways.html 2. We have presented teacher workshops at Cornell University for NY State Master teachers, as well as workshops specifically targeted to elementary and middle school teachers. In addition, workshops for students in the Syracuse University science education program and Binghamton University science teacher program have introduced pre-service teachers to all aspects of the program and provided an example of "hands-on" teaching. 3. We have presented talks about the invasive fish monitoring program at various professional meetings, including presentations at the following conferences: the Wildlife Health Cornell retreat, the New York Invasive Species Research Institute Environmental DNA Workshop: Research Frontiers & Management Perspectives in New York State, the CCE Inservice conference, and the Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium. 4. An interactive map of the test sites and results for round goby, Asian carp, sea lamprey, and snakehead has been generated and is available through our website (https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/edna-testing-results/). The map contains the eDNA results for all fish species monitored, GPS locations, and collecting teacher and school name. 5. The results of qPCR analysis of submitted water samples have been sent to all participating teachers, along with an interpretation of the results and information on how to analyze the data. In the case of negative results, a sample of the analysis of a positive qPCR result was also included for teaching purposes. The information was shard with students and, indirectly, with their families. 6. We have created a dedicated website ((https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/ ) that provides information regarding participation in the program, protocols, teaching materials, and links to maps showing eDNA testing results, and links to related sites. 7. We have disseminated information to teachers around the state through teacher listservs including the Oneonta BioForum, the 5-8 Science listserv, and the listservs of other educational outreach programs like the Cornell ASSET program and the Cornell Institute for Biology program, through direct email to teachers, and by lateral sharing by participating teachers. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Impact Statement. Invasive fish species pose a significant threat to aquaculture, fisheries, the sport fishing industry, water resources, and the environment. Invasive fish contribute to the decline or loss of important native fish species through predation, consumption of eggs and fry, competition for food and breeding grounds, spread of disease, and introduction of parasites. Management of invasive fish requires a multifaceted approach that stresses the need to prevent initial introduction and provides an effective and economical monitoring system for widespread early detection that can help guide targeted efforts to control and limit early infestations. We have developed an efficient, economical mechanism for widespread early detection and monitoring of invasive fish that utilizes quantitative PCR (qPCR) to analyze water samples collected by student citizen scientists across the state for the presence of environmental DNA (eDNA) from several invasive fish species. Kits containing everything needed for aquatic eDNA sampling are reserved using a simple online request system. Using the materials provided in the kit, students collect and process water samples and return them to Cornell for qPCR analysis. Samples are analyzed using newly developed protocols and species-specific primers and probes, and are also archived in the lab. eDNA results are compiled in a relational FileMaker database and displayed on interactive Google maps accessible from our website. The eDNA test results are returned to students for classroom analysis and discussion. In this pilot program, 80 teachers and over 2000 students at 77 schools have used kits to collect eDNA from 253 sites across NY, providing valuable data that will aid in the development of a broad invasive fish management strategy. Project objectives are listed below, followed by relevant accomplishments. Educational objectives. 1. To develop an educational module addressing distribution of invasive fish species that integrates student sample collection and eDNA testing at Cornell University. We have developed a science education module that provides collection kits containing all information and materials necessary for collecting eDNA samples. In this pilot study, 80 teachers and over 2000 students at 77 schools have used our kits to collect eDNA from 253 sites across NY. 2. To optimize procedures for integration of student field collection activities with existing qPCR assays for invasive species. We have optimized the procedure of integrating student collection of eDNA samples with rigorous qPCR analysis of those samples by researchers at Cornell University. Comprehensive analysis of student samples for signature invasive fish eDNA has validated the effectiveness of engaging student citizen scientists in helping to assess aquatic species diversity using eDNA. 3. To make the module available to teachers as part of the Cornell University based ASSET educational outreach program, and to provide short interactive, long-distance workshops for teachers and students interested in utilizing this new technology. We have created a dedicated program website ((https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/ ) with a simple online request system to make collection kits and associated curricular materials easily available to teachers. Phone and email support are also available to answer questions about any aspect of the program. We have disseminated information about the program through teacher listservs including the Oneonta BioForum, the 5-8 Science listserv, the Cornell ASSET listserv, the Cornell Institute for Biology program listserv, and through lateral sharing by participating teachers. To increase awareness of the program, we have presented talks at several conferences, and provided information to various media outlets regarding program activities (see "How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?" section below for details of talks and media articles). To further inform teachers about the program, we have provided several teacher's workshops at Cornell University and presented workshops for pre-service teachers in the Syracuse University science education program and the Binghamton University science teacher program. Information has also been provided through presentations at various professional meetings, including the following conferences: the "Wildlife Health Cornell" retreat, the New York Invasive Species Research Institute Environmental DNA Workshop: Research Frontiers & Management Perspectives in New York State, the CCE In-service conference, and the Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium. 4. To assess student attitudes and learning outcomes following classroom and field use of the invasive species module. A summary of the qPCR output and test results from submitted samples were returned to students to encourage further discussion of invasive fish related issues. Informal assessment of student attitudes and learning outcomes following classroom and field use of the invasive species module was carried out by talking with teachers and students. Although we have not yet done a formal assessment, student interest and enthusiasm were very high, and participating students showed an increased awareness and understanding of issues associated with invasive fish. Research objectives. 1. To supervise the collection and initial processing of environmental DNA samples from local waterways by students throughout New York. We have worked with 80 teachers and over 2000 students at 77 schools to collect eDNA samples from 253 sites throughout New York. At each site, students collected 3 control samples and 3 experimental samples 25 to 50 feet apart and returned them to Cornell University for eDNA analysis. 2. To analyze student collected samples for signature DNA sequences indicative of the presence of invasive lamprey and carp species. We have analyzed student collected samples from 253 sites for eDNA from 6 invasive fish species, validating the use of student citizen scientists for sample collection and the use of newly developed reagents and protocols to assess the presence of invasive fish species. Samples are archived at Cornell University, providing a valuable snapshot of eDNA in the water column at the time of collection. Interactive maps showing testing results for each species and the schools involved in the sampling program are publicly available on Google maps (https://fishtracker.vet.cornell.edu/edna-testing-results/), providing a valuable resource that will aid in the development of a broad invasive fish management strategy. 3. To use the data supplied to validate the use of quantitative (qPCR) procedures to assess the presence of invasive aquatic species, thus providing a new, fast, and economical tool to detect other invasive species in New York's waters. We obtained significant data from multiple samples from 253 sites statewide that validates the use of student collected eDNA and quantitative (qPCR) to assess the presence of invasive aquatic species. The approach is relatively inexpensive, provides rapid analysis of diverse sites, and encourages the next generation to help in prevention by educating them about the threats posed by invasive fish species. 4. To integrate data generated by this project with other invasive fish species data to provide expanded, accurate information on range expansion, distribution, and abundance of Asian invasive carp and sea lamprey in New York waterways. We have presented the results of our studies on easily accessible Google maps to facilitate integration of data generated by this project with other invasive fish species data, and to provide expanded, accurate information on range expansion, distribution, and abundance of round goby, four species of Asian carp, sea lamprey, and snakehead in New York waterways. This data will aid in the development of an effective management plan targeting new and low-level infestations.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Wildlife Health Cornell retreat presentation
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
New York Invasive Species Research Institute Environmental DNA Workshop Research Frontiers & Management Perspectives in New York State presentation
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
CCE Inservice conference presentation
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium presentation
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Progress 10/01/15 to 09/30/16
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience for this project includes K-12 teachers and students throughout New York who are interested in helping to monitor for invasive fish species in nearby fresh waterways through active participation in a collaborative citizen science project with Cornell scientists. The project combines cutting edge quantitative PCR (qPCR) technology with an educational citizen science initiative that engages students and teachers in monitoring local waterways for invasive fish by collecting water samples for qPCR analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA). Background information on invasive fish species, a description of the analytical techniques used in testing for eDNA, an example of the data produced, and a summary of the results obtained from the sites tested are shared with participants. In addition, summary data for all sites and species tested, along with a list of participating schools and teachers, is available on an interactive Google map (http://tetrahymenaasset.vet.cornell.edu/invasive-fish-program/edna-testing-results/ ). Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?1. We gave a presentation on the invasive fish monitoring program to invasive species managers and CCE educators at the NY Invasive Species Research Institute (NYISRI) at Cornell University. 2. We presented a workshop to NY State Master Teachers that included a session on the opportunities offered by the invasive fish monitoring program. 3. We have joined the invasive species curriculum workgroup headed by Megan Phillips, Education & Outreach Coordinator, Bureau of Invasive Species & Ecosystem Health, to help develop curriculum addressing issues related to invasive species. 4. We are working with the Ithaca Floating Classroom program to examine ways to integrate our invasive fish monitoring program into their activities. 5. We presented talks on the use of qPCR for invasive fish monitoring, and on the collaboration between Cornell University scientists and teacher and student citizen scientists to monitor invasive fish species in New York waterways to the Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium sponsored by the SLELO PRISM. 6. We provided 2 in-class seminars for students using the Invasive Fish monitoring kits at Ithaca High School. 7. We hosted a class visit to the qPCR facility at Cornell University by a teacher and students from Beaver River Central School who participated in the Invasive Fish monitoring program. 8. We continue to provide training materials, including background information and collection protocols, for all teachers participating in the project. We have also provided individual phone and email support for teachers using the kits. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?1. The results of qPCR analysis of submitted water samples have been sent to all participating teachers, along with an interpretation of the results and information on how to analyze the data. In the case of negative results, a sample of the analysis of a positive qPCR result was also included for teaching purposes. 2. We have presented workshops and talks regarding the program to several interested groups (see opportunities for training and professional development above). 3. An interactive map of the test sites and results for round goby, Asian carp, and sea lamprey has been generated and is available through our website (https://tetrahymenaasset.vet.cornell.edu/invasive-fish-program/edna-testing-results/). The map contains monitoring results for all three species, GPS locations, and teacher and school name. 4. Information regarding participation in the program is available on our website, and is disseminated via teacher listservs including the Oneonta BioForum, through listservs of other educational outreach programs like the Cornell ASSET program and the Cornell Institute for Biology program, through direct email to interested teachers, and by lateral sharing by participating teachers. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?1. During the next reporting period we will actively recruit more teachers and students throughout New York State to participate in the Invasive Fish monitoring program. 2. We will work with past participants to resample sites tested in the first year to confirm whether a resident population has been established at previously positive sites, and to test for changes at previously negative sites. Repeat sampling will provide valuable data on the range and scope of these invasive fish species. 3. We will continue to analyze the samples submitted by students and teachers, and expand our database accordingly. 4. We will examine possible modifications to our sea lamprey collection protocol and look at the genomes of other invasive fish species to determine the possibilities for developing probes for additional species. 5. We will continue to offer workshops and seminars to interested groups regarding the Invasive Fish monitoring program. 6. We will actively communicate the activities of the Invasive Fish program in conjunction with participating teachers and local news sources. 7. We will continue to work with the invasive species curriculum workgroup to develop additional curricula addressing the ecological, environmental, and economic issues surrounding invasive species.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Impact. This project addresses the significant threat posed by the rapid increase of invasive aquatic species in New York waterways from both a research and an educational perspective. Invasive fish species have a strong adverse ecological impact, often disrupting the maintenance of important native fish species and adversely affecting delicate environmental balances that are important in maintaining good water quality. Invasive fish also negatively impact important economic factors, contributing to declines in the food supply, recreation and tourism, and indirectly contributing to problems in human and animal health. Invasive species distribution can change rapidly, and awareness of the presence of an invasive species is a critical first step in monitoring spread and determining appropriate responses. Emerging technologies monitoring environmental DNA (eDNA) show great promise for detecting the presence of a wide range of species, and have been used to monitor invasive species in both fresh water and marine environments. This project combines the use of eDNA analysis with an educational outreach program that actively engages teachers and students in a collaborative study with Cornell scientists to detect invasive fish species in New York waters. The project supports a joint school/research eDNA approach for assessing the presence of invasive species, and provides a successful in-depth pilot study of the use of this collaborative research model in middle and high schools. The scientist/student collaborative approach used in this study demonstrates the potential for expanded use of a relatively inexpensive citizen science approach to determining invasive species levels in New York and beyond. In addition to strong educational value, the project provides significant scientific data regarding levels of invasive species in waterways throughout New York. In the first 3 collection seasons, this project has impacted 59 teachers and over 1000 students at 57 different schools, engaging them in the sampling of 183 different sites in waterways throughout NY state. Samples collected have been analyzed by quantitative PCR (qPCR) for the presence of eDNA from round gobi, Asian carp, and sea lamprey. Positive samples have been rechecked and additional samples from all sites tested have been archived at Cornell University, providing an important source for further eDNA analysis of any species of interest. An interactive Google map has been created showing the sites tested, the teacher and school responsible for the water collection at each site, and the results of the eDNA analysis for each species. Links to the maps can be found on our website (https://tetrahymenaasset.vet.cornell.edu/invasive-fish-program/edna-testing-results/). Background information on invasive fish species, a description of the analytical techniques used in testing for eDNA, an example of the data produced, and a summary of the results obtained from the sites tested have been shared with all participating teachers and students, supporting the educational impact of the project. Accomplishments. The two major goals of this project are: 1) To develop and test a collaborative educational resource that will facilitate active participation of secondary school students in researching the distribution of invasive fish species in New York and increase student understanding of environmental and economic impacts of invasive species 2) To use the data obtained to validate the use of quantitative (qPCR) procedures to assess the presence of invasive aquatic species, and to integrate data generated by this project with other invasive fish species data to provide expanded, accurate information on range expansion, distribution, and abundance of Asian invasive carp and sea lamprey in New York waterways. Addressing these goals, we have accomplished the following. 1. We have developed and optimized an educational module addressing distribution of invasive fish species in New York waterways that integrates student sample collection and eDNA testing at Cornell University. The module collection kit, supplied free to all participating teachers, provides background information, protocols, and all materials required for the collection and filtration of water samples. Following qPCR analysis of the student collected eDNA samples at Cornell University, the results, along with an explanation of the analytical process used and the data obtained, are returned to classroom for analysis and discussion. The project provides a unique opportunity for students to take part in real and meaningful research and to link what they learn in the classroom to real world issues. 2. We have developed, tested, and utilized efficient and sensitive qPCR assays for eDNA from round Gobi, Asian carp, sea lamprey, and are currently optimizing assays for snakehead fish and invasive Asian eel. These optimized protocols now allow us to involve undergraduate students in the molecular analysis, providing additional educational opportunities for college students interested in environmental issues. 3. We have collaborated with 59 teachers and over 1000 students at 57 schools throughout New York State, who have sampled 183 separate sites in waterways throughout NY. A link to an interactive map showing test sites, results, and participating teachers and schools is available on our website (http://tetrahymenaasset.vet.cornell.edu/invasive-fish-program/edna-testing-results/). As shown, 38 sites (20.8%) tested positive for round goby eDNA, validating both the classroom based citizen science approach to invasive fish species monitoring, and the qPCR approach used. All 183 sites tested negative for Asian carp, indicating that, as predicted, this important invasive species has not yet become prevalent in NY waters. Asian carp are found in states with waterways that feed into NY, and continued monitoring is important to determine where and when they enter NY waters. All sea lamprey samples were negative, probably reflecting the life cycle and habitat preferences of that species, since sea lamprey is known to inhabit NY waterways. We are examining possible modified collection approaches for screening for this species. Samples from all sites have been archived and are available for future analysis of any aquatic species of interest. 4. The data from analysis of all sites has been incorporated into an easily searchable Filemaker database at Cornell University. The database is expanded as new results are obtained, and is already beginning to provide important information on range expansion, distribution, and abundance of invasive fish species in New York waterways. We are examining ways to share this data with other groups studying invasive species in NY.
Publications
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Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/15
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience for this project includes K-12 teachers and students throughout New York who are interested in helping to monitor for invasive fish species in nearby fresh waterways through active participation in a collaborative citizen science project with Cornell scientists. The project combines cutting edge qPCR technology with an educational citizen science initiative that engages students and teachers in monitoring local waterways for invasive fish by collecting water samples for qPCR analysis of eDNA. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?1. We presented a profession development workshop for New York State Master teachers at Cornell University, providing a hands-on introduction to the Invasive Fish program. 2. We presented a hands-on workshop on the Invasive Fish program to pre-service teachers at in the Science Education department at Syracuse University. 3. We presented talks on the use of qPCR for invasive fish monitoring, and on the collaboration between Cornell University scientists and teacher and student citizen scientists to monitor invasive fish species in New York waterways to the Eastern Lake Ontario Invasive Species Symposium sponsored by the SLELO PRISM. 4. We provided 2 in-class seminars for students using the Invasive Fish monitoring kits at Ithaca High School. 5. We hosted a class visit to the qPCR facility at Cornell University by a teacher and students from Beaver River Central School who participated in the Invasive Fish monitoring program. 6. We have provided training materials, including background information and collection protocols, for all teachers participating in the project. We have also provided individual phone and email support for teachers using the modules. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?1. The results of qPCR analysis of submitted water samples have been sent to all participating teachers, along with an interpretation of the results and information on how to analyze the data. In the case of negative results, a sample of the analysis of a positive qPCR result was also included for teaching purposes. 2. An interactive map of all of the test sites and results for round Gobi, Asian carp, and sea lamprey has been generated and is available through our website (https://tetrahymenaasset.vet.cornell.edu/invasive-fish-program/edna-testing-results/). The map contains monitoring results for all three species, GPS locations, and teacher and school name. 3. Information regarding participation in the program is disseminated via teacher listservs like the Oneonta BioForum and through listservs of other educational outreach programs like the Cornell ASSET program and the Cornell Institute for Biology program. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?1. During the next reporting period we will actively recruit more teachers and students throughout New York State to participate in the Invasive Fish monitoring program. 2. We will work with past participants to resample sites tested in the first year to confirm whether a resident population has been established at previously positive sites, and to test for changes at previously negative sites. Repeat sampling will provide valuable data on the range and scope of these invasive fish species. 3. We will continue to analyze the samples submitted by students and teachers, and expand our database accordingly. 4. We will continue to offer workshops and seminars to interested groups regarding the Invasive Fish monitoring program. 5. We will actively communicate the activities of the Invasive Fish program in conjunction with participating teachers and local news sources.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
1. We have developed an educational module addressing distribution of invasive fish species that integrates student sample collection and eDNA testing at Cornell University. In the initial year of the project, the module has been distributed to teachers and students at 32 schools throughout New York State. 2. We have developed, tested, and utilized efficient and sensitive qPCR assays for eDNA from round Gobi, Asian carp, and sea lamprey. 3. Teachers and students at 32 schools throughout New York State have sampled 84 separate sites. Fourteen sites (16.7%) tested positive for round Gobi eDNA and all 84 sites tested negative for Asian carp and sea lamprey, validating both the classroom based citizen science approach to invasive fish species monitoring, and the qPCR approach used. The results of eDNA testing of water samples collected have been sent to all participating teachers. Samples from all sites have also been archived for future use. A link to an interactive map showing test sites, results, and participating schools is available on our website (https://tetrahymenaasset.vet.cornell.edu/invasive-fish-program/edna-testing-results/). 4. The data for the sites that were sampled by the teachers and students at 32 schools throughout New York State have been incorporated into an easily searchable Filemaker database at Cornell University. The database will be expanded over the next two years, but is already beginning to provide information on range expansion, distribution, and abundance of round Gobi, Asian invasive carp and sea lamprey in New York waterways.
Publications
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