8th graders make the best of staying in Belchertown

While their classmates were off in our nations' capital, 20+ intrepid explorers tried their hand at scooping, sorting and identifying aquatic critters.  Our main goal was to scoop our way to discovering the quality of the water in the Lake Wallace watershed.  Turns out it is pretty good!  Not only did we find a variety of dragonfly and damselfly nymphs, there were lots of crayfish and a beetle larva that just has to be a great find!

(If you know what this is, please email MsLevy at llevy@belchertown.org)

The group got a first-hand comparison of good and poor quality water, and discussed the meaning of high biodiversity in a healthy ecosystem.  The leeches both repulsed and fascinated.  Check out that rich, brick color on the belly and the fetching spots on its back...kinda pretty, huh?!

Perfect weather, great students, and lots of good learning.