Our first stop was at the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge. Students watched an informational video in the visitor's center before heading out to the trails for some guided tours on the property.
Then we all headed back on the bus to head down to Grand Isle State Park. We headed down to the lake for lunch and some free time. Some played on the swings, and others practiced skipping stones on the lake. Students then learned about scientific sketching. Ms. Lindsey made some comparisons to writer and illustrator Beatrix Potter, who began her work as a naturalist. Students looked at a few examples, and then headed off with their science journals to begin their nature studies. As students were sketching, geese flew in formation overhead. So much to see!
After making scientific sketches, students went back to their lean tos to set up camp, play with friends, and then make dinner. At 7:30, the GRIT campfire began! Skits and singing games entertained everyone before lights out.
The next day was much colder, and rainy for sure! Despite the weather, GRIT students were troopers when our guests from St. Mike's College came to discuss water quality and help students take samples. They found all kinds of interesting things to see under the microscope!
Waders for water samples!
The round tree trunk hanging on the bluff
Gil discovered the leaky pair of waders...
...while Braden wanted to fully submerge for warmth in his!
The St. Mike's group had waterproof paper! It formed droplets instead of absorbing into the paper.
Our final stop was the Ed Ween Fish Hatchery where students learned about how fish are being raised to help stock the lake.
Fish Eggs
So many fish!
At the end of the trip, students had worked hard and were definitely ready to head home for some warmth and drier clothes!
