Get Outside!

Aquatic Ecology

We offer a variety of Aquatic Ecology classes, many of which are available year 'round, some seasonally. To varying degrees, these broad themes are the focus of each Aquatic Ecology class. See a complete list of Wolf Ridge's core curriculum themes and concepts.

  • Ecosystems: All living and non-living components of an environment interact with one another to form an ecosystem.
  • Natural Systems: Every component of nature forms a cycle and is in constant change.
  • Biodiversity: A complex natural system is more stable than a simple one, and more able to absorb disturbances.
  • Ecological Adaptations: All living things acquire physical and behavioral adaptations to be successful in their environment.
  • Population Ecology: Populations are limited to a density the environment can support by shortages basic needs, and may be further reduced by other mortality factors.
  • Human Culture and History: Humans and the environment are interrelated.

Three-Hour Morning or Afternoon Classes

Fisheries Management

After investigating the habitat needs of stream fish, students visit the Sawmill Creek field station where they will make a working stream model, will identify aquatic invertebrates and will fish for trout and other fish. See full description.

Frozen Lake Study

Students will examine the ecosystem of Wolf Lake under the ice. Working in groups, they will explore the lake through holes drilled in the ice. Studies will include plankton sampling, ice depth and structure, lake bottom structure, and possible catch and release activities. One adult is recommended to attend this class.. See full description.

Lake Study

Students will examine the physical, chemical, and biological properties of Wolf Lake. Wearing boots, which are provided, and working in small groups, the students test temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen. They will use nets to collect and examine aquatic animal life and will evaluate the health of the lake based on their findings. See full description.

Stream Study

Students will examine the physical, chemical and biological properties of Sawmill Creek. Wearing provided hip boots and working in small groups, the students will test stream velocity, temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen. They will also look at the diversity of aquatic animals and evaluate the health of the stream through their findings. We recommend that an adult accompany this class. See full description.

1-1/2 Hour Evening Activity

Lake Superior Game

Around a giant map of Lake Superior, students are assigned roles and places to live. Then each is given a personal environmental dilemma involving the lake. A clear pail representing Lake Superior becomes polluted (with food coloring) according to the students’ decisions. See full description.