Discover How Bangor Students Are Making Waves in Watershed Health: A Hands-On Learning Journey with Maine Audubon

This spring, fifth graders from Ms. Estes’ class at Mary Snow School embarked on an exciting journey to explore watershed health. Their adventure was made possible with support from the NOAA Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) grant program. They traveled from Copeland Hill in Holden to the meadows of Essex Woods in Bangor, gaining hands-on experience in environmental care and stewardship.

Their first stop was Hart Farm. Here, they learned about regenerative agriculture from farmer Andrew Toothaker. They saw how techniques like contour farming prevent soil erosion and keep nutrients within the land. The students discovered that well-managed manure can enhance soil health. Many of them were charmed by Millie, the farm dog, and the playful piglets, which won their hearts during the visit.

Next, the class traveled downhill to Fields Pond Audubon Center. Equipped with boots and nets, they explored the stream’s health by looking for macroinvertebrates, like mayflies. These tiny creatures indicate water quality, and thankfully, the students found plenty of life—proof that the water was cold and clean. They learned that the health of this stream was directly linked to the good farming practices they observed at Hart Farm.

Finally, the students headed to Essex Woods, where they joined Bangor Parks and Recreation’s efforts to restore native habitats. They planted native plants as part of a project to support biodiversity and reduce runoff, contributing to the health of the Penobscot Watershed.

At the end of the day, Ms. Estes quizzed the students on their experiences. Their answers showcased not only what they learned but also their excitement. From composting to stabilizing riverbanks, they had a deeper appreciation for how these practices impact watershed health.

Thanks to collaboration between Hart Farm, Fields Pond Audubon Center, and Bangor Parks and Recreation, these lessons went beyond textbooks. They became memorable experiences that the students will carry with them.

Interestingly, a recent study by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration found that educational programs like these significantly increase young people’s interest in environmental issues. Programs that involve hands-on learning can lead to long-term engagement with nature for students.

Many students shared their thoughts on social media, expressing how the visits ignited their passion for environmental stewardship. Tweets and posts from the class showed enthusiasm and admiration for the animals and the learning experiences they encountered.

In conclusion, this enriching experience highlights the importance of community involvement in education. It proves that when kids connect with nature, they come away with lasting lessons that inspire them to take care of the world around them. That bond with the land, water, and community is what they will remember most dearly.

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