a7e10469c91f7a56bbc4f66d8ae4a8cf.jpg

DELAWARE RIVER: Classes in session on steamboat

By John Tredrea, Special Writer
How’s this for a good-time way to learn about the Delaware River and related topics?
Take your class or group on a two-hour instructional voyage on the river aboard a steamboat that’s a replica of an 1880 sternwheeler.
"We take a two-hour ride from the dock at the boat ramp in Lambertville," said Anne Tenaglia of SPLASH (Student Participation in Learning Aquatic Science and History), the organization that runs the educational boat rides. "From Lambertville, the Coast Guard allows us to ride two miles up the river, to the Route 202 bridge."
Ms. Tenaglia said most of the trips are for school children. More than 30 people can be aboard.
River chemistry is delved into during the voyage.
"We test the river water for oxygen and acidity levels," Ms. Tenaglia said. "We also examine how prolific the populations of certain invertebrate organisms are in the river, because that’s a very reliable indication of a river’s health."
Also discussed during the voyage is the river’s "enviro-scape," which deals with its tributaries and the Delaware’s watershed between the New York state line and Cape May.
"We also talk about the importance of the shad migration," Ms. Tenaglia said. "Historian Jason McVey gives a lecture on the history of Lambertville and New Hope."
In addition to many groups of school children, the SPLASH cruise has hosted wedding receptions, memorial services and all manner of other events.
"We also offer classes to Scout groups, to help them complete their merit badge requirements," Ms. Tenaglia said.
SPLASH also offers a walking tour of the Delaware and Raritan Canal.
To fine out more, call 609-542-0311 or visit [email protected] www.steamboatclassroom.org.