Secondary School Field Research Program (SSFRP)
The Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory’s Secondary School Field Research Program (SSFRP), led by Dr. Ben Bostick, offers high school students a transformative experience in real-world environmental science. During the summer of 2024, SSRFP participants worked directly with research teams in the Lamont Sanctuary Forest to collect, process, and analyze ecological data.
Students were trained in field methods including soil sampling, vegetation surveying, GPS use, and digital data logging. Their work contributed directly to long-term datasets on soil health, tree biomass, and carbon cycling. Many students took ownership of specific subplots within the forest and were responsible for repeated measurements, lab prep, and data cleaning.
The SSFRP program is not only about research—it also emphasizes communication, mentorship, and community. Participants shared their work through presentations, poster sessions, and outreach events. Many of their contributions now serve as the foundation for future modeling and monitoring projects. By empowering young scientists with real responsibility and purpose, SSFRP plays a vital role in building the next generation of climate leaders.