Scajaquada Creek is a 13-mile-long stream in Erie County, New York, named after Philip Kenjockety, a Native American who was the described oldest resident of the region upon his death in 1808. The creek begins in the Town of Lancaster, east of Buffalo, and passes through the Town of Cheektowaga before being diverted into an underground culvert through Buffalo. It re-emerges at Forest Lawn Cemetery, flows over Serenity Falls, and ultimately empties into the Niagara River at the Black Rock Canal. It has lent its name to the Scajaquada Expressway, a highway that adjoins the creek’s southern shore, and is overlooked by Buffalo State College, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, and the Buffalo History Museum. Notably, Scajaquada Creek was a site of battle during the War of 1812, when American riflemen defended it against a British force attempting to raid American supply depots​.
This urban waterway that winds its way through the heart of Buffalo, offers us an invaluable opportunity to delve deep into scientific exploration right in our backyard. This remarkable living lab is teeming with diverse ecosystems, from the subtle microorganisms in the water to the vibrant array of flora and fauna along its banks. Here, we have a chance to observe environmental science in action, study the impact of human activity on natural habitats, and learn about the importance of conservation and restoration efforts. Scajaquada Creek is not just a local landmark, but also a dynamic classroom where every ripple, rustle, and bird call holds a lesson. Let’s immerse ourselves in this vibrant, hands-on educational experience and foster our understanding and appreciation of the intricate network of life that exists in our local waterway.