Benjamin Logan High School Students Dive into Real-World Science with Mad River Field Study

Today, the Aquatic Ecosystems class at Benjamin Logan High School, led by Mr. Spencer Reames, ventured to the Mad River along Road 165 for an immersive field experience. The trip provided students with the chance to apply their classroom knowledge in a hands-on, real-world setting. Equipped with kick nets, students collected macroinvertebrates, including flies and mayflies, and preserved them in alcohol for subsequent laboratory analysis. ​

These field activities are vital for assessing the health of the river, as the types of organisms found provide important indicators of water quality.

In the Aquatic Ecosystems course, field trips like this help students understand that certain species are sensitive to pollution and only thrive in clean water. The presence or absence of these organisms, such as mayflies, signals the quality of the water. Discovering such species in their samples suggests good water quality, while their absence may point to potential pollution issues. Through this process, students deepen their comprehension of the direct connection between water quality and the life it supports, enhancing their appreciation for environmental science and conservation efforts.

Mrs. Sally Stolly, who joined the class on the trip, reflected on the experience: "It was incredible to see students engaging in hands-on science. This is what education is truly about—building a strong foundation of knowledge and then applying that knowledge in real-world settings. Benjamin Logan is fortunate to be located in an area that allows students to step out of the traditional classroom and immerse themselves in nature. This type of experience creates memories that will last a lifetime."
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Overall, the trip not only reinforced the students' academic learning but also inspired a commitment to environmental stewardship, as they gained firsthand insights into the ecosystems that support local wildlife.