Digging into science

Sharon Emerling, Story and photo
Contributing writer


***image1***Landstuhl Elementary and Middle School environmental science students
are creating a schoolyard nature area they hope gets certified by the
National Wildlife Foundation.The development of outdoor habitat areas
protects wildlife and enhances the educational experiences of students,
said Elaine Edwards, environmental science teacher.

To get their habitat certified, the students will map the site, take an
inventory of animals and plants, build a small pond as a water source,
examine the soil, construct a trail, build nest boxes and feeders to
attract local wildlife, and seek out help from other local groups.
During the semester-long elective course, students will take field
trips, recycle and share their findings with elementary students as
they continue their exploration.