Creating opportunities to learn about nature in nature is our thing at FortWhyte Alive.
In school programs, in workshops and classes, and even our trail signage – there is something to learn in every corner of FortWhyte.
One of our absolute favourites is our Specialty Science Days, a series of themed educational days held in partnership with local environmental science experts. Students are invited to half or full days of workshops centred around different themes. The first of these days, Freshwater Day, was held on October 10 and welcomed over 70 students from grades 7-12.
Throughout the day, students sampled water and tested its chemistry to check on levels of oxygen, phosphorus and more.
They learned about environmental DNA, the signatures of living things which can be detected in lakes and rivers.
They discovered substances that can pollute water, and how living plants can play a role in filtering and purifying water.
They sat with an Anishinaabe traditional knowledge holder and learned new perspectives on water and the medicines that come from aquatic plants.
They got into boots and planted willows and cattails along an eroded shoreline.
They learned to identify freshwater species at risk like the largemouth buffalo, and the risks of invasive species like carp.
Not only does Freshwater Day create new and engaging ways for students to learn but it also gets them excited about the world of science!
Here are a few quotes from students:
- “It was interesting to hear an Anishinaabe perspective of water. Water has more meaning than just something we drink.”
- “I discovered that willow branches can grow into trees if planted deep enough into shorelines”
- “I learned the process of taking a water sample, and the lab process of testing a water sample.”
- “I discovered that the DNA of animals that live in a lake can be detected in the water.”
Teachers enjoyed the day as well!
- “Students realized that their school learning connects to science research – like chemistry class connects to water quality monitoring.”
- “The students enjoyed the activities as well as just being in nature.”
- “The students learned a lot about Indigenous perspectives shared around a warm fire.”
Thanks to our educational partners!
FortWhyte Alive thanks the following organizations and experts for sharing their knowledge and inspiring the next generation of environmental scientists.
IISD Experimental Lakes Area
South Central Eco-Institute
University of Manitoba – Manitoba Great Lakes Program
Taylor Galvin (Anishinaabekwe environmental scientist)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada – Aquatic Invasive Species and Aquatic Species at Risk
Thanks to our funders!
Honda Canada Foundation
NSERC-Promoscience
We acknowledge the support of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).
Nous remercions le Conseil de recherches en sciences naturelles et en génie du Canada (CRSNG) de son soutien.
