Bedford South School students get a lesson from Mr. Scott of the Sackville River Association. As part of the River Rangers program students learn about the various fish that live in the river.
The Sackville River Association (SRA) is an environmental group dedicated to the preservation of the Sackville River Watershed.
“The Sackville River watershed houses several species of fish, birds, insects and small animals. The watershed is essential for their survival, as it provides a delicately balanced network of food and shelter,” explains the association’s website.
“Protecting and restoring the Sackville River is extremely important in ensuring that all people, now and in the generations to come, will have the opportunity to experience this amazing ecosystem.”
The SRA allows students in the area to learn about fish species, water quality and environmental issues.
As part of the curriculum students “become caretakers of the fish in the aquariums and gain knowledge of fish identification, life cycle of the various fish species, and their physical and biological requirements.”
Students spend a part of the day visiting the Fish Ladder by Hefler’s Lumber Yard on Lucasville Road in Sackville.
Then they head to another area where, as active participants, they monitor water flows and water temperatures.
Students get a chance to wade in the river (rubber boots mandatory!) and collect different insect specimens.
The school trip ends with a guided tour of the habitat surrounding the river.
At the end of the program, students have enjoyed learning about the habitat of the Sackville River. They are fascinated by the different fish they get to observe in their classrooms, all courtesy of the Sackville River Association. All in all, it is a fun and educational experience for students, teachers and parents.
