Science Riparian Zone 8A

Opening Circle

We discussed the importance of Riparian Vegetation to the health of a stream. The students shared their learning from previous homework.

Stream Crossing / Plant Tag Reading

Half of the class went across the stream to the spruce grove to have a discussion about the spruce growth’s health and how it could affect the river. The other half stayed on the left bank, searching out tagged plants and bushes and recording their height so we could use them for our Tumalo Creek Individual Investigations.

Solitude and Reflection

For solitude and reflection, we wrote about what we had seen relating to Riparian Vegetation and what we learned or discovered that day.

Closing Circle

Shared our Reflections and what we learned, then headed off!

            If this all was still a grove, I imagine it would be greater in health. While in this forest I see no instantly recognizable invading species, unlike those banks, (which are more prone to erosion) which are scattered with mullen. More trees means more shade, and a less open space keeps the riparian zone sections, leading to upland vegetation, where they need to be. I guess more of these trees would leave more organic/woody debris, all leading to my previously mentioned conclusion, that is Tumalo Creek was more populated with spruce groves, it would be healthier in many ways.

---Martin Girardi

Science: Riparian River Crossing 8B

Opening Circle

Reviewed protocols and learning targets and then listened to a reading from past 8^th graders about experiences on the same protocols of the day.

River Crossing and Wader Introduction

We learned who was going across the river and how to use the Waders and pole when you cross.

Bankfull Line and Line Intercept

We measured where the bank was at its fullest and the amount of shade that the riparian zone vegetation produces. The people who measured the bankful layed a line that showed  where the bankfull line was. One group ran along the line and counted the amount of  medium growth.

Solitude and Reflection

After lunch we went to our own spots and thought about our time at Tumalo Creek so far  

and (depending on what side of the river you were on) wrote on the health of the watershed.

Closing Circle

We gathered our gear and then crossed the river (if you were on the other side) and went         

back to REALMS without a closing circle.

 

Riparian zone

"The sounds of the river all around me,"

"The sounds of leaves in the trees,"

"I feel at peace here at Tumalo Creek."

---Eden, Ryan, Leif