Ecological Design Challenge: Cape May Court House

Provided by: New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection |Published on: June 8, 2022

Activity - Classroom

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Synopsis

In this activity, students will design a plan to stabilize and enhance the tidal estuary of the Green Creek Watershed, where it meets the Delaware Bay.
This area was damaged by Superstorm Sandy, and the plan must include the creation of a dune that will protect and enhance the wildlife habitat and a method for monitoring the site.
This activity is based on one of the NJ Department of Environmental Protection's Living Shorelines projects.

Related Teaching Resources

Subjects: Biology, Earth and Space Sciences, Engineering

Authors: New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

Region: North America, USA - Northeast, United States, Jersey Shore, New Jersey

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Positives

This project encourages students to use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
The activity is based on a real location with real challenges.

Additional Prerequisites

Teachers may want to discuss the types of sustainable structures that can help prevent flooding and erosion before students begin the activity.
This NJ DEP site provides photographs, site assessments, permitting documents, and other information about the projects.
Teachers may want to share this rubric with students so students are clear about the teacher's expectations for the activity.

Differentiation

Students could work individually, in pairs, or in small groups.
Teachers could extend the activity into a larger project, including three-dimensional models, posters, slideshows, or diagrams to explain their plans.
Engineering and design classes could pair with science and biology classes to come up with joint solutions that incorporate the habitat requirements, ecosystem benefits, and physical requirements of the project.
Other resources on this topic include this video about sea level rise in New Jersey and this interactive map from NASA showing annual sea levels for the world.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

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Resource Type and Format

About the Partner Provider

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

Dedicated to improving and protecting public health and the environment, NJDEP uses the best available science to guide the conservation of natural and historic resources, ensure a stable climate and resilient communities, and secure clean and healthy air, water and lands throughout New Jersey. A main priority for NJDEP is to reduce and respond to climate change; hence the commitment to support educators implementing NJ Climate Change Learning Standards in all subject areas, at all grade levels.

Scientist Reviewed

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