Old Fly Marsh

Old Fly Marsh Field Trip

 

The fifth graders traveled to Old Fly Marsh in Fabius on Friday for a field trip to study the ecology of a marsh.  Mr. Jack Gramlich, and his friend John, led student groups on tours of the marsh. Students learned about the importance of wetlands to our area, as well as the history of the marsh.  There was a discussion of the impact of invasive species (phragmites) on the marsh ecosystem. Students were also able to experience firsthand the large impact the beaver colony in the marsh is having in flooding the trails.  One of this year’s groups was able to see an active paper wasp nest. Another group was able see the migrating geese come in for a landing at the marsh, where they would spend the day resting and feeding before continuing on in their travels.  You never know what a day in the marsh will bring!

After lunch, Mr. Gramlich came to join the 5th graders to do an additional presentation on wetlands in the county, as well as discussing the impact that filling them in has had locally.  Students were fascinated by the wetland creatures that Mr. Gramlich brought with him to demonstrate food chains.

What a great day of learning for all!