This year, Johnson Creek Watershed Council is teaming up with Portland Parks and Recreation’s Kelly Rosteck to bring students from across the Portland area to visit sites in the Johnson Creek Watershed.
In early March, two 3rd grade classes from Peninsula Elementary School visited Errol Heights on a dry, overcast day to talk about birds. The two teachers from each class were passionate about birds and birding. They had taught their students to appreciate their avian friends prior to the trip by discussing identifying factors and erecting a bird feeder in front of their classroom windows. During the trip, we discussed the birds we observed (robins, crows, a heron and even a flock of peacocks and peahens!) and the habitats in which they thrive best. We also chatted about other wildlife neighbors, including beavers, and native plants that support bird nesting and foraging habits.
Of the trip, one teacher noted that, “More than half of my students said the field trip was the best part of their week. Kids loved exploring nature and having time to play at Errol Heights.”