Corps Quest: Summer 2001 Re-Discovery Project
Oh joy, the ocean in view! The excitement of seeing the Pacific after their arduous journey gave way to surviving the winter of 1805-1806. The Corps spent six months at the mouth of the Columbia. In addition to staying dry and counting the days to spring, Lewis, in his role as a naturalist, produced a great deal about the natural features in the area.
Has the area where the Corps resided (to include the mouth of the Columbia) undergone changes in the ecosystem, especially to the flora and fauna, due to human activity?
Your team's task is to determine HOW to characterize the changes in the area due to human impact. Present your findings about what changes have occurred, why and what you think might happen in the future in a Web-based format.
Changes may be measured by an analysis of the types and quantities of flora and fauna recorded during the Corps visit and those in evidence today. For example, have changes in the river's halocline gradient resulted from human activity? Changes could also result from activities such as erosion, eutrophication, or deforestation and land use.
The accounts of Lewis and Clark record the conditions during the 1800's. To determine the current conditions, you will do field work (Monday, July 16) and be able to use of other resources such as experts, the Web, and/or written materials.
Considerations:
See
the Lewis and Clark Re-Discovery CD. Click on the Uncharted/Expedition/Winter
Quarters Journal Entry
