Students will use a wide range of oceanographic equipment and field chemistry kits to take vertical and longitudinal profiles of water quality along the entire length of the Thames River, a tidal estuary that flows fifteen miles from Norwich down to Long Island Sound.  Measurements will include temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, pH, CO₂, and nutrient concentrations (phosphates, nitrates, and ammonium).  Students will use their data to study how the estuary varies physically from the mouth to the headwaters, and also to examine human impacts on the estuary.

To prepare for this trip: Students should wear closed toed shoes and dress for the weather.  Remember, it's typically colder and windier by the water.  Dressing in layers is recommended. Life jackets will be provided.