GIS Live 2005
"Open Spaces - Wild Places"

Sessions Previews

Using Conservation Data - Lowland Wetlands
Jason Erkman , science teacher
East Alexander Middle School - Hiddenite, NC
and students in the Wetland Ecology Club.

Description:

Wetlands provide significant value to our society. "As ecological systems, wetlands perform an array of ecological or environmental functions that contribute to the health and diversity of the natural environment, as well as to the quality of other environmental resources. Wetlands provide habitat for a great variety of birds, mammals, fish, shellfish and crustacea, reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants. Wetlands perform hydrologic functions: they influence the amount, distribution and flow of water in the landscape through their storage, release and flood control capabilities. They influence water quality by removing silt, certain nutrients (especially phosphorous and nitrogen) and contaminants (such as metals, pesticides and herbicides) from the water that flows through them. In addition, wetlands can protect shorelines against erosion." Find out how teachers and students are using their GIS and GPS skills to protect this unique habitat on their school grounds.

Preparing for the Session: Activities for Parents and Educators to engage in:

(K) What do you KNOW about this already?

What are wetlands? Why are they important? What might you find in a wetland that you might not find in other places?

(W) What have you LEARNED?

What have you learned about wetlands? How does GIS help manage this type of open space?

(L) What else would you LIKE TO KNOW?

How could you become a part of preserving wetlands? What are some things that you could do? How could you begin a project in your community or school?