6 August, 2002

Hello from the Cold Region Research and Engineering Laboratory Today at CRREL

Here I am at my orientation to the TEA Program at CRREL (Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratories) in scenic Hanover NH.

All 12 of the 2003/2004 TEAs came in on Sunday and we have been learning about the TEA program what to expect and what is expected of us.

I have come to realize what a demanding road I am beginning. The Arctic field experience on which I will embark and my transfer of information to the community is a monumental task albeit an exceedingly important one I am receiving exceptional training to help me along the way.

CRREL

Today we were able to tour CRREL. Margery Darling the Public Affairs Specialist showed us the facilities. We were able to tour the cold rooms where scientific samples are stored until they can be studied At -20 F we got our first taste of polar weather.

We learned about many of the important projects that CRREL undertakes Their primary responsibility is to support the armed forces In addition to the TEA program antifreeze additives have been developed to aid in winter concrete construction ice flow in river locks is studied seasonal flooding is examined and various other cold weather related situations are simulated and investigated.

Classroom Connections

While you are getting ready to begin your school year perhaps complaining about the summer heat there are researchers support staff and teachers who are in the Arctic wilderness Currently TEA Dallas Trople a high school science teacher in Sedro-Woolley Washington is working in the Matanuska valley northeast of Palmer Alaska Also TEA Betty Carvellas, a science teacher at Essex High School in Essex Junction Vermont is on USCGC Healy traveling through Bering Strait and into the Chukchi and Beaufort seas of the Arctic Ocean.

Reflection

While there is a lot to learn and a lot to do I have gained a new confidence in my abilities as I look at other "regular" teachers and the amazing things that they have accomplished I personally can't wait to find out about prepare for and educate others in my research project area Please feel free to follow along with me and grow with me