Business and Science to Join in Taking a River’s Pulse

Environmentalists and big corporations often end up in open conflict because they do not see eye to eye on whether a natural resource like a river should be protected or exploited.

But the Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries, a scientific research organization, and I.B.M., the computer giant, plan to come together in this old waterfront town on Thursday to announce a bold collaboration combining innovative technology with marine biology expertise to create a world-class center for river research. Their joint project will create a system of sensors to provide 24-hour-a-day monitoring of conditions in the 315-mile Hudson River as it flows from the Adirondack Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean.

The partnership will bring together two very different cultures, as was evident this week when I.B.M. executives accompanied the Beacon Institute’s director on a tour of the river aboard a 29-foot wooden fishing boat called Trust. The environmentalist wore a polo shirt and athletic shoes. One of the executives was in a dark blue suit and striped tie.

The two sides also have different goals. While the Beacon Institute, which receives financing primarily from the State of New York, seeks to understand the river in order to protect it, I.B.M. sees an opportunity to create a new business based on environmental awareness. Both sides say they can accomplish something together that neither could do on its own. The overall cost has not yet been determined.

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