Finger Lakes Institute

We had a fantastic turnout for the 2026 Finger Lakes Research Conference last month! As always, it was a wonderful day of community, conversations and connections. Many thanks to our presenters for sharing their research and to the NYSDEC for co-sponsoring the event with us.

Warm holiday wishes from all of us here at the FLI!

The 2026 Finger Lakes Research Conference is accepting abstracts for oral and poster presentations! Submission deadline is 10/27/25. Please visit FLI's conference web page for abstract submission link and details. Link in bio.

A stunning sunrise over Seneca Lake this morning!

Today is the inaugural World Lakes Day, designated by the United Nations to observe the importance of lakes and their ecosystems. Here on campus, today is another important day, the arrival of our incoming first-year and transfer students. Welcome HWS Class of 2029!

This summer, you may spot FLI and summer staff at local boat launches or conducting field work at sites across the region. Our Watercraft Stewards and Field Technicians are vital to our team, connecting with residents and visitors to prevent the spread of terrestrial and aquatic invasive species. Learn more by visiting the Finger Lakes PRISM website https://fingerlakesinvasives.org/

We had the pleasure of connecting with HWS alumni and their families during Reunion excursions aboard the William Scandling research vessel on Seneca Lake last week. Alumni participated in collecting and identifying plankton from the lake surface, as well as examining sediment and biological samples from the lake bottom. Lively discussions were held with all the groups, exemplifying the passion for lifelong learning of HWS alums!

First week of FLI summer research-- we have a great crew!

Congratulations to the HWS Class of 2025!

Local high school science teachers participated in the Science on Seneca training on Seneca Lake this past weekend. Led by HWS Biology and Geoscience Hws faculty, teachers learned how to conduct physical, chemical and biological testing of Seneca Lake utilizing the research tools and technology aboard the HWS William Scandling research vessel. We look forward to welcoming these newly trained teachers back to Seneca Lake and the HWS campus with their students!