BHS Students Travel to Environmental Science Center for Hands-On Learning

Students in the AP Environmental Science (APES) class at BHS visited the Indian Springs Environmental Science Center in White Lake, Michigan on April 16, where the headwaters of the Huron River originate.

During the trip, students conducted both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the river’s water system. They performed chemical testing for pH, nitrates, phosphates and dissolved oxygen. Despite the pouring rain, they also carried out physical measurements, including humidity, temperature and wind speed. Back in the lab, students evaluated the biological health of the water by identifying macroinvertebrate indicator species.

An especially meaningful component of this experience was that students were able to contribute their findings to an ongoing data collection effort used to help monitor and protect the river and its downstream ecosystems from pollution and contamination. The day concluded with an environmental science scavenger hunt along the trails, reinforcing their learning in a hands-on and engaging way.

This trip was supported by the Berkley Education Foundation through an Innovation-Grant. Tracy Francis, APES teacher said, “I am truly grateful for the BEF grant that made this experience possible by helping cover transportation costs. Opportunities like this allow students to engage with science in authentic, impactful ways that simply cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom setting."