Since April, Skagit Land Trust has taken eight groups of Sedro-Woolley 1st, 2nd, and 3rd graders to our Utopia Conservation Area. Immaculate Conception Regional School 3rd graders also participated in these trips. Children and chaperones alike got to connect with the land and interact with several hands-on learning stations guided by wonderful volunteers.

At the plant station pictured above, the students learned about the importance of restoration plantings to the health of the Skagit River and other waterways. Meanwhile, over at the bird station (below), students learned about the importance of tree snags for bird habitat. Volunteers from Skagit Audubon helped students learn how to use binoculars and identify birds.

Participants at our macroinvertebrates station (below) examined creatures such as dragonfly and damselfly nymphs that were found in water samples drawn from nearby Weisman Creek. We discussed how macroinvertebrates serve as food for salmon and how the presence certain macroinvertebrate species indicates healthy water.

At the animal evidence station, learners hunted for animal evidence such as scat and trees that showed signs of rubbing by elk. We even dissected the owl pellets that we found under the nearby shore pines!

Participants also had the opportunity to examine bones, pelts, and other fascinating items loaned to us by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. At our beaver station, the kids looked for signs of beaver activity and discovered downed trees and chewed branches used for building dams.

It is a privilege to see children, teachers, and parents learn and connect with special places like the Utopia Conservation Area. Skagit Land Trust loves using our properties to educate the community and help future generations to appreciate and care for the lands we love. Many thanks to our staff and volunteers, who help to teach and foster conservation values in communities across Skagit County.