A Wetland Field Study

The field projects at this site give students an opportunity to investigate a number of wetland characteristics firsthand: surveying wetland vegetation, soils, water quality and wildlife; documenting the wetland from an artist's perspective; investigating land uses along its periphery; and refining a base map upon which all collected information can be recorded. This resource explains how to organize the field study, thereby securing the interest of the students. It is part of a module that aims to help students get to know the complexities of wetlands, discover wildlife, enjoy the experience of being outdoors, and learn how necessary wetlands are to the health of our environment. For educators and their middle school students, it suggests ways to study wetland characteristics, why wetlands are important, and how students and teachers can help protect a local wetland in any part of the country. An associated set of activities is also available. Educational levels: Middle school