Carolyn C. Smith
The shallow water of the harbor was a problem 300 years ago and is still a problem today. In addition, there is a major concern of the pollution caused by the disposal of waste material by the industries found along the harbor. The quality of the water throughout the harbor has been rated by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection as being unsuitable for any use. The city and state are trying to come up with solutions to make the water conditions better.
There is a wealth of historical and cultural resources found throughout the harbor. Much has been done to preserve these resources but the task is a long and costly one. The future of the harbor depends greatly on the value and pride we seek of our immediate environment.
MAP: COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA (as defined by the Conn.Coastal Management Act) Planning Districts, City of New Haven 1982
(figure available in print form)
Suggested Field Trips
New Haven Historical Society
A visit to the New Haven Historical Society will enable the students to see the original model of the Eli Whitney’s cotton gin. There are also valuable prints and early American portraits. Arrangements can be made for lectures on specific subjects you deem appropriate for this unit. Call 562-4183 for further details.
Peabody Museum
A visit to the Peabody Museum of Natural History of Yale University will enable the students to examine the minerals, plant fossils, and animal fossils found in the state. There is an excellent exhibit on the Connecticut Geology in this building. Special lectures are also provided by this institute. For further information call 436-1710.
East Rock *
East Rock is one of the most attractive spots in the city of New Haven. East Rock Park is situated on an area which is over 400 acres. It is at East Rock that the students will be able to examine the traprock found in the area. The students will also be able to see the Mill River, one of the tributaries of the harbor.
West Rock *
As you approach the area of the West Rock there is exposure of traprock which has changed from a bluish gray to a rusty coloring due to weathering. The students will be able to note the sharp breaks in the angIe of the slope which marks the base of the traprock.
Mill Rock *
This ridge is formed of Triassic sandstone veneered with only a few feet of soil, which is for the most part boulder clay or till deposited by the melting glacier. Nearly all of the rocks found here are of trap or sandstone, which is a characteristic of the Connecticut Valley Lowland.
Ride Through the Harbor
Guided tours to ride on the sloop around the harbor will enable the students to view East Rock, The Lighthouse, parts of the city of New Haven, and other interested points as a navigator. For further information call 865-1737.
* For further information on walks of East Rock, West Rock, and Mill Rock contact New Haven Parks and Recreation—787-8027.