"OK, record your turbidity and dissolved oxygen data for each
site. Then you can get the aquatic nets," the instructor tells fifth grade students.
"Anybody see a pattern between pH and dissolved oxygen?" one student asks as he checks his worksheet.
"Nope.....but wait till we start collecting specimens. Whatda ya wanna bet that we get the most insects where
the DO is highest."
Students put away their long plastic tubes, chemical test kits, and clipboards and begin to systematically collect,
identify and record the insects and other invertebrates in Big Creek. Each new species brings excited squeals as
friendly
competitions develop between groups.
Text books are full of facts about dissolved oxygen and turbidity. Internet savvy students could probably find
information on the Internet. But kids who, on the first warm day of springtime, are splashing in the creek, catching
insects, snails and crayfish will not only remember the lessons, but also will developan appreciation for the environment
that will last a lifetime.
These same students grow up to be the land owners and decision-makers if Door County. |
Currently:
- Field trips for school groups
- Naturalist hikes and programs
- Reforestation projects
- Prairie projects
- Water Resource Education Center
- Septic System Demonstration Project
- Public lecture series
- Adult education classes
- Youth programs for scouts, etc.
- Radio commentary and newspaper articles on nature
- Speakers for groups
- Lecture hall for other science and environmental groups
Future Plans:
- Conduct a Biodiversity study
- Develop the greenhouse
- Establish youth mentoring program with retired science
professionals
- Sponsor teacher-training seminars
- Sponsor adult workshops
- Sponsor a summer science academy for gifted students
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