Special to
L’Observateur

NORCO — More than 200 Harry Hurst Middle eighth graders attended the Wetland Watchers Field trip at Wetland Watchers Park, where students were immersed in wetland education.

Students attended eight stations designed to involve students with all aspects of wetlands, including the history of the area and hands-on learning with indigenous reptiles, including snakes, alligators and turtles.

Students learned how to throw cast nets and identify the variety of creatures they caught.

Students created maps of the area using skills they will be evaluated with in science and social studies.

The students were able to meet and learn from soil scientists volunteering from the USDA –NRCS.

Students planted trees with professors from LSU as part of the LSU Coastal Roots Program and participated in a Swamp Sweep, collecting litter that park visitors have left behind.

Volunteers from Dow, Shell-Motiva, Valero, Atmos and other community volunteers helped.