Fourth and fifth grade students at Cedar Crest Academy are participating in the ‘Clinton River Watershed Project.?
The students, along with their teacher Jenny Healy, tested the water from the Clinton River in hopes of keeping it clean and safe.
Students must be well prepared before going to the watershed. They learned certain techniques in the classroom including, how to dress when they go outdoors, the types of equipment needed and certain areas to attend to. Once the class had a firm understanding of the project and their duties, they went to work full force.
Testing the water for specific bacteria isn’t as easy as it sounds. The students needed to identify both macroinvertebrates and bacteria.
‘It was interesting to see the macroinvertebrates,? said Ariel Joslin, a student participant. ‘Last year we didn’t see too much and this year we did.?
Through careful testing and analysis, the students discovered the water is clean. They came together as a group and planned a complete presentation. With charts and other presentation materials, the students introduced their project to the Clinton River Watershed Council.
The project is conducted during the spring; however, when the students are indoors, they still manage to grasp the concept of the outdoors and water testing. Through a program called Investigating Lake Iluka, the students can study water and all of its components.
‘I wish people would respect the water,? said Jessica Moreno, a project participant.
‘The project has definitely taught these kids so much,? said Jenny Healy, science and math teacher. ‘We look forward to continuing with the project.?