About the Program

In the Columbia Basin, we are surrounded by wetlands, streams, lakes and rivers found close to our communities. But we need to understand how these aquatic habitats function and work in order to preserve, restore, maintain their beauty and the services that they provide us such as drinking water, wildlife and recreation.

In this program we use aquatic habitats in our backyard to demonstrate a wide variety of ecological concepts. Through the activities and lessons provided, students can develop the foundation for literacy in the life sciences.

This "boots on the ground" field trip enhances student understanding of the environmental, technological and social aspects of science and encourages them to work together to solve problems, as well as to develop an appreciation for science and a sense of wonder about wetlands.

About the Community Educator

Darcie has spent 28 years working in the area of aquatic ecology and restoration techniques. She is passionate about community engagement and has collaborated with non-profits in a number of projects including water quality and flow monitoring of streams, and
assessing the health of streams, wetlands and lakes. Darcie often gives talks and provides outreach each year to school groups, and citizen scientists who want to learn more about these important habitats that are in our backyards.