Students Conduct Research on Puget Sound

With so much in the news about science funding and support for research, Overlake students got a first-hand look at the important work being done to protect Puget Sound.

On Friday, fifth grade students took part in a five and a half hour environmental field trip aboard the Pacific Marine Research vessel Spirit of ’76.

Marine biologists showed students the impact humans have on our waters and how they can help be a part of conserving our important resource. “They learned about ways they can help and protect Puget Sound," says Teacher Jill Bowles who organized the experience. "It starts with simple things like picking up your dog’s waste, not using harmful pesticides in your yard, and preventing invasive species from entering our waters. It ties in with our community service as everyday things we already do like recycling, but they now know that there are more that they can change.”

Although colder on the waters, students enjoyed a sunny day with perfect boating conditions.

Collecting organism and water samples and learning about the tools scientists use in their work, Overlake fifth graders were more than observers. They gently handled marine life, made lab conclusions, and worked along marine biologists. "It's great for the kids to see scientists at work out in the field. Guest speakers come into our space, but the impact of the kids being out on the water is very educational. That experience and how you don't want that to go away for them and future generations is the important lesson," adds Bowles.

It was a fabulous experience for our fifth graders.