Students Release Endangered Salmon to Make a Difference
BANGOR, Maine (WABI) - In an inspiring effort to make a real-world impact, students from All Saints Catholic School recently released 200 endangered Atlantic Salmon into the Kenduskeag Stream. This remarkable event represents more than just the act of freeing fish; it encapsulates an extensive educational journey taken by 7th-grade students who have spent months nurturing these aquatic creatures.
The process began when students observed the life cycle of salmon firsthand, from hatching to maturation. Jacob Stone, one of the students involved, described how their teacher, Mrs. Rehmeyer, meticulously monitored the temperature of both the stream and their tank to ensure the salmon acclimatized effectively. “We fed them every week, watched them grow, and documented their development,” he shared.
The core of this educational project was not just about biology; it resonated with the broader theme of environmental stewardship. Principal Johanna Lake expressed the project's significance: “We have to show that we can make a difference with it too, right? So we released a couple of hundred salmon today. Obviously, not all of them will survive, but some will, which is more than what we had in the morning.”
Students like Nolan Bolster noted the long-term impact of their actions, stating, “Even with those few, they’re going to breed when they’re older and make many other fish, so even those few can save the whole population.” This reflects a profound understanding among the youths that every small effort counts in the fight against species endangerment.
The journey was not only educational but also emotional. Each week included "Fishy Friday" assignments, allowing the students to engage deeply with their project. Principal Lake emphasized the importance of connecting classroom learning with real-life experiences, stating, “To come out and actually get to see the fish, you know, swim off into the river, it just kind of brings it all full circle for them.”
As the students released the salmon, there were visible moments of joy and excitement. Bolster remarked on the thrill of watching the fish evolve, showing how this project left an indelible mark on them. “I really liked watching the fish grow and drawing them each time they moved to a different stage in their life,” he said. Stone shared his special memory: “We got to see one hatch right in front of us, and that was really cool for me.”
This annual project not only provides students with a unique learning experience but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards marine life. As we reflect on their efforts, it raises the question: how can we, as individuals, contribute to the conservation of endangered species in our own communities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
