Waverly High School physics students got an inside look at the everyday workings and historical significance of the PORTS site through a special program hosted by Ohio University.
Each week, the students meet with subject matter experts on a wide range of topics including uranium enrichment, environmental sampling, and site history; then use the knowledge gained to re-write the Annual Site Environmental Report (ASER) into a more user-friendly consumer document. The Student ASER will be published and uploaded online as well as printed for use in local libraries.
The class recently took a tour of the site to see everything they have been learning about this year.
"I thought the trip was interesting for the students and myself. It was beneficial to witness how careful they are with the deconstruction and decontamination of the buildings and to observe how they are utilizing a variety of resources to prevent atmospheric and groundwater contamination,” said Chris Murphy, Waverly Physics teacher. “I was pleased to see a large number of air monitoring stations collecting data and monitoring the air quality."
Senior Aiden Peoples is excited to be a part of the project.
“I think this is a great opportunity for Waverly students, not just because it’s a great experience for college, but also because I feel like many of us do not know much about the site,” said Aiden.” The plant is such a big part of our history, and so many of our families have worked at the site for generations. By being a part of this project, Waverly students can be involved in the history and share the knowledge we learn with others.”
In addition to the physics class, Waverly art students work with the project to help enhance the final product.
Each year students from one of Pike County’s four high schools are chosen to create and publish the Student ASER.