US Fish and Wildlife employees along with H.A.P.E.T. worked with the Prairie Science Class students on the why’s and how’s of duck banding. The students learned about the traps and watched ducks get removed.

Understanding the reasons for duck banding and then watching the ducks get banded were also a part of this day. The students recorded data in their journals about the duck in their small group.

Releasing the ducks was the final step. Seeing these birds up close was definitely a highlight for all.

4th grade Prairie Science Class students helped with cutting willows out of the prairie. Although willows make great habitat for a variety of wildlife species, it is also considered an invasive plant that will crowd out prairie grasses and flowers.

Students learned the importance of "Keeping the Prairie a Prairie" and were able to use leather gloves, goggles and loppers to safely cut willows and remove them from the prairie.

Looking Ahead!