On May 8, 2024, Western Wayne 9th grade High School Students visited the Varden Conservation Area and participated in ecology activities presented by Lacawac Sanctuary, DCNR, and Trout Unlimited. Students participated in three different activities, which involved the topics of macroinvertebrates in a pond environment, a fishing demonstration with practice casting, and chemical water testing and pollution.
Students also released rainbow trout as a conclusion of the Pennsylvania Trout in the classroom (PA-TIC) program. The Pennsylvania Fish Commission provided rainbow trout eggs that were hatched and raised by Dr. Mark Nebzydoski and his classes this school year. The trout release was assisted by the Pike – Wayne Chapter #462 Trout Unlimited, President, Paul Ranello and Youth Advisor, Pat Guinnane.
Lacawac Sanctuary instructors included Natalie Wasilchek, Asst. Director of Environmental Education/Camp Director, who explained chemical testing and water quality at the stream, Nicole Seul, assistant director of school programs, Maria Hutchins and Merrilee Ulisny, Environmental Educators, who explained water quality health through identification of macroinvertebrates found at the pond.
Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR) Environmental Education Specialist, Josh Heath, explained fishing techniques which included casting a rod and bait type based on the environmental conditions as well as fish identification.
Prior to the field trip students engaged in a classroom presentation on water quality and the environment. Students participated in activities that model groundwater and surface water and how they fit into a concept of a watershed. These activities lead to discussions about the local area and incorporate the concept of a water table and common water resources shared by all.
Funding for the Varden classroom education as well the field trip was provided through an Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) grant from the nonprofit Western Wayne Education Foundation. Christine McClure, President, 1970C Easton Turnpike, Western Wayne School District, Lake Ariel, PA 18436
Accompanying the students were instructors Dr. Mark Nebzydoski and Maria Phillips, Helene Tscheschlog, and Michael Bershefsky. For more information on
Varden Conservation area
http://www.vardenconservationarea.com/
https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofVCA
http://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/VardenConservationArea/Pages/default.aspx
– Lacawac Sanctuary
https://www.facebook.com/Lacawac
– Pennsylvania Trout in the Classroom (PA-TIC)
https://www.patroutintheclassroom.org
Pike – Wayne Chapter #462 Trout Unlimited
