Several local organizations worked together to offer a Wetlands Explorers workshop to students on Tues., June 9, at the Flint Creek Wetland Mitigation Bank.

Twenty-one children attended the “Survival” themed workshop, which taught about the necessity of wetlands for the survival of wildlife and provision of clean drinking water. The campers had the opportunity to learn about multiple aspects of wetlands. Kate Gribbin, a Park Naturalist with the Alabama State Parks, taught the students about wetland trees and plants and was followed by Michelle Reynolds, who shared tips for identifying and conserving wetland plants. A class on safely selecting plants for medicinal purposes was also taught by Allyson Shabel, an Alabama Cooperative Extension urban agent.

The students also learned about water quality and pollution prevention and later had the opportunity to use nets to catch macro invertebrates in the stream.

In addition to learning about the wetland habitats, students also learned about survival skills. Travis Badger, who serves as the education coordinator for the Morgan County Soil and Water Conservation District and Morgan County Environmental Education Foundation, taught students about building campfires. Students then had the opportunity to cook their lunch over the fire and build a survival kit.

The workshop was sponsored by Legacy Partners in Environmental Education, Alabama State Parks, Alabama Cooperative Extension, the Flint Creek Watershed and the Morgan County Soil and Water Conservation District. Badger served as the program coordinator. Earth Team volunteers Abigail Badger, Kasey Badger and Emma Lindsey assisted with the camp.