Environmental Engineering, a subject usually reserved for post-secondary is now on display, front and centre with student involvement at Erickson Elementary.
The mycrestonnow.com newsroom was invited to view the wetlands project by teacher Ms. Cooper. Six girls from Cooper’s class involved with the school’s newspaper conducted the tour.
Shania, Karmandie, Kayden, Anna and Alora provided insight on the gated grounds which is only accessible with adult supervision.
They said the dirt was removed to carve a path for the natural stream where flora may grow and house muskrats and birds which are slowly returning to the newly formed habitat.
While on the stream’s edge, the girls pointed out some footprints that fit the hoof of a deer and the claws of a muskrat.
Karmandie went on to explain how the dirt was piled up and removed to form multiple ponds and streams to house flora and wildlife. She said the nutrient-rich dirt was then spread across the property and covered in hay to protect seeds underneath. The girls even pointed out an endangered plant, which they’ve aptly named the “Touch-me-not.”
This project would not have been made possible without the efforts of the RDCK and Erickson Elementary’s Ms. Cooper.
But it is the students who are the real heroes, shaping the earth towards sustainability.