Hofstra journalism students take a hike to learn about science reporting

Eight Hofstra University graduate journalism students from Professor Scott Brinton’s Current Issues in Science Reporting class recently participated in and are reporting on an Envirothon that took place in the woodlands around the Meadowbrook Parkway in North Merrick, Roosevelt and Freeport on April 30. Brinton, of Merrick, is a senior editor and op-ed columnist with Herald Community Newspapers. The Nassau County Unprotected Woodlands Taskforce, headed by county Legislators David Denenberg and Norma Gonsalves, organized the event.

Intended to raise awareness about environmental damage in the forests along the parkway, the Envirothon included a 45-minute lecture and two-hour hike. The students had an opportunity to meet with and interview a Hofstra University biology professor, a Nassau County hydrogeologist and a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation aquatic biologist, as well as elected officials. The students are now working on multimedia presentations about the event that will include text, audio, photos and videos.

Coleman Country Day Camp in Freeport served as the Envirothon’s principal sponsor, providing refreshments and transportation.