The Nisqually River Education Project, South Sound GREEN and Chehalis Basin Education Consortium are offering the first ever Climate Resiliency Fellows. This program aims to build a dynamic community of engaged teachers committed to engaging their students in learning about and taking action in local climate change issues and climate resiliency projects. The Fellows program is offered as a part of a 3 year, environmental literacy program supported by NOAA. Teachers in the program meet quarterly to receive curriculum support and brainstorm ideas for action projects that address local issues. Erica Frederickson is one of our Fellows participating this year. Thank you, Erica, for your dedication and enthusiasm for environmental education!
In April, our 4th graders went to Lake Sylvia in Montesano. We learned more about the invasive species problem of English Ivy. Our kids pulled and removed over 51- 32 gallon garbage bags of the English Ivy. We also went on a plant identification walk and identified several more invasives such as Buttercup, Himalayan Blackberry, Shot Weed, Morning Glory, Holly & Scotch Bloom. They learned the difference between a simple & compound leaf and how to tell moss from lichen. They also learned to identify several ferns.
For Earth day, we planted 7 Western Hemlock trees in our school forest. Students also came up with 10 or more ways they can help our planet. They made posters of Earth and used their hands to show what they can do to make a difference.
On June 5th our students worked at Schafer State Park pulling Herb Robert & Tansy. They pulled several 32 gallon bags. We also had the opportunity to meet with the City Forester and go on a tour learning about tree disease & restoration efforts in the park. Park ranger Arnold Hampton taught us about erosion problems and efforts to control erosion along with stream power.
Our students really feel they can DO SOMETHING to help!
