This activity provides opportunities for students to assess the current health of a local freshwater ecosystem.
Students collect information about riparian vegetation and 'waterbugs'.
They can then draw conclusions about possible strategies to maintain or enhance their waterway. The Gould League also has a Pondlife Kit, which includes information booklets about ponding and wetland activities, information guides and equipment for these activities. Teaching considerations Safety Ensure that students are wearing covered shoes, and are aware of the potential hazards of the collecting site and of handling live organisms. As this is an outdoor activity, adequate sun protection will also be needed. It is important for students to understand that the field study area must left as it was found.