Dive into the Connecticut River: An Evening with Kari Kastango

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Join us at the Library for “Embracing the Connecticut River,” a conversation with Kari Kastango, a member of the Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) Board of Trustees.

Kari Kastango

Kari Kastango

Date: Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Time: 5:30 pm

Kari Kastango started her career as a research exercise physiologist (UMASS, Amherst ’89, ’92) and later pursued a PhD in Biostatistics (PITT ’06). With over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Kari is currently a director of biostatistics at a clinical research organization. She balances her professional and personal commitments through meditative physical activities. Kari lives in South Hadley, MA, with her wife, Alison Garvey, and their two cats. Remarkably, on October 15, 2023, Kari became the first person to swim the entire 410-mile length of the Connecticut River!

The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) works to protect, restore, and advocate for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities throughout the entire Connecticut River watershed, from its headwaters to Long Island Sound.

This event is co-sponsored by the Library.

Illustrated Talk with Beyond Plastics- August 18th

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Plastic in the water, on the land and IN you! Fighting pollution on Fishers Island and Beyond

Event Details: 

Date: August 18th, 2024

Time: 4:00 PM 

Place: In-person at the Museum, 2nd Floor and virtual via Zoom

Category: Illustrated Talk

 

Join us for a compelling presentation by Megan J. Wolff, Ph.D., MPH, Health Policy Director of Beyond Plastics, as she returns to the Museum to explore how individuals can reduce their consumption and exposure to plastics. Dr. Wolff will also discuss exciting pending legislation in New York State aimed at significantly reducing plastic pollution.

Plastic pollution is a persistent problem. Michele Klimczak of the Fishers Island Conservancy, along with various organizations and volunteers, diligently work to clean up beach litter. However, there is always more washing ashore and being produced every day. Plastic waste is projected to triple by 2060, and as it breaks down into microplastics, it spreads throughout the environment. Researchers are discovering plastic particles nearly everywhere, including within the human body.

What are the impacts of these plastics, and how can we combat them?

*To secure your spot, please reach out to us at 631-788-7239 or send an email to [email protected]. Virtual attendance does not require prior registration.

Eggs Marks the Spot

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During a survey for the @nysdecvideos Long Island Colonial Waterbird surveys, 23-24 summer intern Anna W. observed a nesting Least tern (Sternula antillarum) and other Least terns foraging around their territory. 2 eggs were observed from the nest.

From the Field, Video Snippet, Anna White, July 10, 2023

Pollinator Paradise

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A warm summer breeze sweeps through the John Thatcher Native Garden on Fishers Island, causing the sunflowers (Helianthus) to sway gracefully. In this setting, pollinators such as bees are seen actively engaged in foraging, their delicate movements contributing to the garden’s ecological vibrancy.

From the Field, Video Snippet, Anna White, July 10, 2023

Dinner Time

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As the evening appears on Fishers Island, so does an American mink (Neovison vison), who navigates the rocky shoreline hunting for his evening meal. After a brief swim, the mink emerges victorious, clutching an eel in its jaws. Satisfied with its catch, the mink retreats to a secluded spot to enjoy its nourishing meal, ensuring a full belly for the night ahead in its coastal habitat.

From the Field, Video Snippet, Anna White, July 16, 2023

Day’s End Drift

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As dusk settles over the Long Island Sound near Fishers Island, a family of Common Eiders (Somateria mollissima) drifting peacefully on the calm waves

From the Field, Video Snippet, Anna White, June 18, 2024

Dusk Delight

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A Black-Crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) enjoys the evening as dusk settles after a warm summer day on Fishers Island. Terns playfully fly around him, keeping him company.

From the Field, Video Snippet, Anna White, June 18, 2024

Piping Plover Showdown

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During a survey for the ‪NY DEC Long Island Colonial Waterbird surveys, 23-24 summer intern Anna W. spotted an intense plover brawl on South Beach. It looks like two distinct plover groups are in a serious territorial debate. Based on the fierce fighting, we believe these birds are either prospecting for a nesting location or have recently started a new nest, moving in on a pair that is already established with a nest.

From the Field, Video Snippet, Anna White, June 18, 2024