How can organisms help us assess the health of local ecosystems? We found out by investigating bio-indicators of water and air quality such as macroinvertebrates and lichens. How can we ensure that our local habitats are healthy? Teachers learned how their schoolyards can become a “Monarch Watch certified way-station”.
Participants received a copy of “Save Our Stream!” written by scientists involved in local research. We ventured into the field with local scientists and used a variety of tools and techniques to collect, analyze and communicate field data. We also learned how to use data collection and analysis to engage students and introduce them to scientific research. Teachers discovered resources available from Kestrel Education Adventures and Harvard Forest. Each day was filled with field studies, “hands-on, minds-on” investigations and discussions aimed to highlight the resiliency of our local habitats.