Students at Columbine
Middle School completed a problem-based investigation concerning invasive
species at Baldridge Park (River Bottom). This investigation is a part of the
Weed Warrior Program funded by 3M.
The overarching authentic
problem was:
- How can the public be informed of
the invasive species issue affecting our community?
- Each
group was given a different target audience.
Students also needed to
answer the following essential questions:
- What is an invasive species?
- Why should students care about
invasive species?
- How do invasive species affect the
community, state, nation, and the world?
During the course of the
investigation, students participated in a full day field experience at
Baldridge Park. Students rotated to different stations to gather information
and knowledge from a variety of professionals from our area. They saw how
drones can be used to map an area, discovered how scientists estimate
populations, and learned about local plants, birds, and other animals. Students
learned from BLM and National Forest representatives, biologists/scientists,
and other community members on how invasive weeds in the Montrose area are
affecting the ecosystem, agriculture, and economy of our community.
Students then presented
their findings to a panel of parents and professionals at the Pavilion.
