Some 27 home school students celebrated Earth Day on April 20 by spending the afternoon with the North Oakland Headwaters Land Conservancy in Davisburg. They learned about how to protect the environment around them.
Students hiked to the Davis Overlook and learned about the different variety of plant species are found in the area, especially those considered invasive to the environment. Students also learned how to classify marshes as well.
Representatives from Team Reptile were on hand for the afternoon to showcase various animals and the habitats they live in, such as garden snakes and salamanders.
A highlight of the event was learning about watersheds. Students learned how to protect and identify watersheds in Michigan.
‘The kids learned that watersheds have specific addresses,? Laurie Cooper, home school parent, said. ‘Most people don’t know that.?
Using the example of a student’s bedroom, conservancy volunteers explained how to protect ‘conservation easements? found in their homes that apply out in the environment as well.
The day ended with each student receiving a Michigan topographical watershed map and a white pine tree to plant at home. Some of the students even volunteered to stay longer and help take down Autumn Olive plants, an invasive variety that needs to be removed from local environments.
‘I really liked the information. As an adult, it was really interesting,? Cooper said. Cooper’s daughters, Krysten and Kourtney, both enjoyed learning about the watersheds.
Working with the home school students was a cooperation that the NOHLC wanted to get involved with.
‘The home school students have the time to learn about these things,? Cooper said. ‘It’s a really nice match up. We learned why we need to take care of the planet and water sources. Not only the why, but the how, too.?
The group of local home school students are currently collecting old American flags to be properly disposed of an Flag Day in June.