Water

Students will learn how trees are an essential part of our lives with a focus on the role they play in urban areas, including energy considerations.  They will be introduced to the threats posed to trees, including non-native insects, domestic animal waste, and erosion.  Students then evaluate the potential impact of local tree conservation efforts and design a plan for their community.

Students distinguish between a wildfire and a controlled burn, also known as a prescribed fire. They explore multiple controlled burn scenarios and the positive impacts of fire on ecosystems.

Students learn about the importance of water quality for human health and agriculture. They conduct a simple lab activity to demonstrate how natural areas filter water better than paved areas.

Test a simple interactive population model to estimate sustainable salmon harvest. Simulate variation in nutrient input by comparing growth of plants with different concentrations of fish-based fertilizer control.