Longfellow Students Dig In to Healthy Soil

This spring, Longfellow 5th graders started in the classroom learning about the water cycle, watersheds, and common water pollutants we encounter here in Maine. Students followed the journey of a raindrop named "Flow" as she encountered pollution on her way to Casco Bay.  Students then walked from their school down to Capisic Pond, following the actual flow of rainwater. During the walk, they looked for potential sources of pollution in the Capisic Pond Watershed.  Once they arrived at the pond they collected insects from the stream (called macroinvertebrates) to determine the health of the water in Capisic Pond. They ended the field trip by thinking about the types of pollution they had observed and how these sources were impacting the water health of Capisic Pond. 

Using what they learned on their field trip, students focused on ways to reduce pollutants associated with yard care at their school and community neighborhoods. They conducted research on specific YardScaping healthy lawn care practices including aeration, overseeding, and compost tea.  They tested their research findings in a test plot of lawn in their school courtyard and maintained two rain gardens which help filter stormwater runoff from their school campus. The students presented their research and test plot to family and friends to demonstrate how effective their healthy lawn care techniques can be even over the course of just a few weeks.

Students from Longfellow Elementary School wrapped up their Youth YardScaping unit with a wonderful day of presentations in their school garden!  We were so impressed with just how much this group of students learned about healthy lawn care practices this spring.  Their presentations were creative and informative!

We always enjoy our time with the Longfellow Elementary School students and we look forward to returning next year for another round of Youth YardScaping!