Sunday, November 12, 2017

WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL receives visit from International Wildlife Refuge educator


On November 8, Mrs. Braatz returned to West Middle School with an important power point presentation. Mrs. Braatz informed our sixth-grade science classes about the importance of the International Wildlife Refuge located in Gibraltar, along the Detroit River. This refuge also has the distinction of being one of 14 urban refuges in the United States.
   
Mrs. Braatz's purpose as an Outreach Educator is to connect those of us who live in urban areas with nature and its wildlife. Mrs. Braatz explained that at the International Wildlife Refuge people can fish, hunt, bird watch, walk the trails, photograph nature and observe wildlife.

Through her power point presentation she showed us the differences between an old growth forest and a young forest. She told us of the importance of coastal marshes and vernal wetlands. They act as protected areas or nurseries for young amphibians and reptiles. By looking at pictures of a variety of birds and animals our students will now be better able to identify wildlife when viewed in their natural habitats.

Mrs. Braatz encouraged our students to visit the International Wildlife Refuge. The various activities that visitors can do at the refuge will allow people to connect with nature on many levels. We thank for her visit and appreciate the information she provided us. The physical and emotional benefits of connecting with nature are well documented. West Middle School strongly encourages our families to enjoy nature as often as possible.



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