Fifth Grade Conservation Day

 

There were 80 students from St. Mary’s, Rothsay, and Breckenridge.  They enjoyed the outdoors, hands-on learning stations at the annual Fifth Grade Conservation Day held at Chahinkapa Park on September 11^th.   Stations included forestry, soils, wildlife, water quality, prairies, and Chahinkapa Zoo.   

 

Edwin Koepp, Minnesota DNR Forester, explained the different types of trees, their leaves, and how long a tree can survive.  The students also were able to view the fire truck.

 

Scott Schroeder, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, discussed water quality and the types of pollutants that can be present in our water systems.  Students were able to identify and touch the biological invertebrates that were netted from the pond. 

 

While discussing wildlife conservation and habitats, students had the opportunity to touch and see the many different pelts provided by the Minnesota DNR – Conservation Officer, Ryan Brown and Conservation Officer, Curt Jepson.  

 

Wilkin SWCD and NRCS staff hosted a game called “Soil Jeopardy”.  Teams of students were asked questions and competed for points as they learned about soil formation, soil use, soil life and soil conservation.   

 

A fun game of Prairie BINGO was hosted by the staff of the Wilkin SWCD which challenged the students’ knowledge of wildlife, plants, habitats, and benefits of our prairies.  Winners were determined by the first to fill their team bingo card. 

 

During the final learning station, students were shown confiscated items made from endangered wildlife and then had the opportunity to meet JoJo, the armadillo and Rupert, the baby kangaroo.  The Chahinkapa Zoo staff also discussed their unique characteristics and habits.