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Center High School During the past seven years, Center High School science students have investigated Dry Creek as part of their science classes, pulled non-native Red Sesbania weeds from the stream channel, and planted over 500 trees on district campuses. As part of the Integrated Science I & II, and Earth Science classes, students have walked to the creek during the school day, made general observations on stream habitats, recorded nitrate, pH, temperature, velocity and depth measurements, collected and sorted benthic macroinvertabrates, and performed bioassays on Daphnia using creek water. In the future, these efforts could contribute valuable data to a coordinated network of students monitoring the Dry Creek Watershed The Community Service Club, in conjunction with the Sacramento Tree Foundation, has organized several tree planting and tree mulching/maintenance days throughout the district. In addition to planting over 500 new trees on district campuses, students have begun to monitor and maintain them. A project begun at one school site will create a computerized map and database of the trees using GPS and GIS technology to help keep track of how the trees are doing. For the last four years, Center High School students have worked with the Sacramento Weed Warriors to help take out Red Sesbania from Dry Creek at Gibson Ranch. Approximately 150 students logging over 500 work hours have begun to make a dent in the thick growth of this plant in one stretch of Dry Creek. The Sacramento Urban Creeks Council applauds the students for working to make Dry Creek healthier and for learning more about creek and river animals by using the creek as an outdoor classroom. In addition to the direct benefits of the activities, these experiences and the knowledge gained from them will contribute to the development of responsible practices by students, their families, and friends.
Sacramento Urban Creeks Council |
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