Monday, May 21, 2012

Trout Release 2012

Thanks to all who helped make our release day a success! What a beautiful day we had. We were able to release 38 fingerling into the stream. We tested the water ph which was 7.0 and temperature of the stream was 51 degrees. This made it an easy transition for our trout.

 The 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students participated in a bug study lead by Ms. Stark from the Juniata Conservation District. She brought two faithful assistants who helped the students identify macroinvertebrates gathered from the stream. We also examined a leafpack to identify the bugs which were attracted to this habitat. In addition we created 3 leafpacks which were placed in the stream. We will return to the park to check and log data on the water quality  of the stream as indicated by the macroinvertebrates found in the leafpacks in a few weeks.

In the afternoon kindergarten, first, and second grade students joined us to complete a variety of educational activities. Juniata High School's Ag teacher, Ms. Morgan brought several high school students. They assisted  Mrs. Winey with the trout release as well as ph and temperature measurements. They also lead a Project Wild Game Station which the students really enjoyed.

East Juniata's Ag teacher, Mrs. Glick brought nine students who lead a scavenger hunt station. Our students really enjoyed working with the older students.

The DCNR crew helped students plant trees in the park. We greatly appreciate their support. They willingly provided facilities for the students to use the restroom and wash their hands at the park.

Our local sponsor Penns Creek TU provided the opportunity for the older students to learn to cast a fly rod and examine fishing gear. They also assisted with the bug study.

Check out the video of the release activities!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Trout in School...So Cool!



Can you believe that the school year is coming to an end? It is amazing to me that on Thursday, we will be heading to Karl B. Guss Park to release our trout! Just wanted to share a picture of my class with their "real" book! What an awesome job they did on our book! They are so proud of their work and so am I! Hopefully, we will have good weather for our release. We have been busy making preparations for our release. Check back  soon to see some pictures and a video of the activities of the day.