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Detective at the Creek

Activity

Observing Fish and Water Health

Head to Onion Creek and observe the water closely. Is it clear or cloudy? Are there lots of plants or algae? Can you see any fish swimming, or insects crawling in the water? Using your senses, look, smell, and listen. Then, play detective: based on what you observe, what clues tell you if the water is healthy for fish? Try making a “Fish-Friendly Checklist” with things like clear water, shade, plants, bugs, or no trash. Use it to rate the health of the creek.

Science Seed

Fish depend on good water quality to survive. If the water is clean, cool, and full of oxygen, it can support a wide range of fish and aquatic life. When the water is too warm, full of sediment, low in oxygen, or polluted by trash or runoff, it can become dangerous for fish to live in. The amount of sunlight, the plants growing along the banks, and the speed of the current all affect how healthy the water is. Scientists often study the fish and tiny aquatic insects living in a stream to learn about its health; these animals are called bioindicators. If the creek has lots of different insects and small fish, it’s usually a good sign the water is clean.

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earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

Explore Perez Elementary School

join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

Perez Elementary School is named in honor of Lance Cpl. Nicholas S. Perez, who gave his life in service to his country. Perez is a supportive learning community with a focus on service. At Perez, we believe effort creates ability and all students will learn at high standards if they are given clear expectations, taught using best practices adapted to their unique needs and provided extra time and resources as needed. Perez students have numerous opportunities to serve their school, community and environment. They receive powerful instruction in the core curriculum areas, as well as in technology, art, music, physical education, and health.

This project was made possible by The Powell Foundation.