Ninth graders in Mahopac High School biology teacher Tricia Johnson’s Life Science: Biology class took their learning outdoors for Forest and Water Awareness Day at Clearpool Model Forest in Carmel, New York. Alongside Cornell Cooperative Extension educator Shane Stevens, Johnson, an Emeritus of the New York State Master Teacher fellowship, led her students in a hands-on exploration of the local forest ecosystem and the importance of protecting the watershed.
Working in activity groups, students learned how to identify common regional trees, conducted a biodiversity survey and assessed the health of a small habitat by observing its plant and environmental features. They also explored the role of wild mushrooms and other fungi as decomposers, helping break down organic matter and sustain healthy ecosystems.
Additional activities introduced students to the history and purpose of hunting education, including the importance of preventing lead from ammunition from entering local waterways.
The experience connected classroom biology to the natural environment right here in the Mahopac community, helping students better understand the relationships among forests, wildlife and water quality.
