The Kellogg Biological Station Long-term Ecological Research program has developed an on-site science activity trial for elementary students highlighting KBS LTER sustainable agriculture research.
The activity is part of KBS’s partnership with local school districts. The goal of the partnership is to improve the Michigan K-12 science curriculum by providing teachers with exposure to current ecology topics.
At the Agriculture and Ecology Student Activity Trail, students learn how scientists help make farms profitable and good for Michigan's water, soil, air and wildlife habitat.
LTER developed an interactive student activity guide that leads students through the trail stations and teaches them about agriculture and ecology. The activity booklet and teacher’s guide are available free for download here.
The 15 lessons are located along a one-mile hiking trail that circles through agricultural, successional forest and prairie habitats.
Trained KBS volunteers lead the students through the activity trail. Teachers can guide the experience by choosing which stations their class will participate in and by doing pre- and post-tour activities in the classroom.
The activity trail costs $1 per student and includes an activity booklet each student can take home.
While visiting KBS, classes are also welcome to explore the Bird Sanctuary for a small fee. Contact the Bird Sanctuary office at tours@kbs.msu.edu or (269) 671-2510 to schedule a tour at least two weeks in advance.
More information can be found at the KBS LTER website.