The Benjamin Logan Environmental Science Club has enjoyed a busy and inspiring month filled with weekly activities designed to spark curiosity, build environmental knowledge, and develop hands-on skills. From studying nocturnal predators to planting pollinator habitats and designing imaginary bird species, our young scientists continue to embrace every opportunity to learn about the natural world.
Exploring the World of Owls
A couple of weeks ago, the club focused on one of Ohio’s most fascinating nocturnal residents: owls. Students learned about the different species found in the state, their unique adaptations, feeding habits, and hunting behaviors. Discussions also included the ways human activity affects owl habitats and what people can do to support these remarkable birds.
The highlight of the session was the dissection of owl pellets, as students uncovered the tiny bones of rodents and other prey species. Through this hands-on investigation, the group gained a deeper understanding of owl diets and food webs in Ohio ecosystems.
Planting for a Colorful Spring and Summer
The following week, students headed outdoors to the family garden area beside the elementary building. Veteran club members—those with two or three years in ESC—led the effort to fill a raised bed with flower bulbs that will bloom into a vibrant showcase next spring. Later, the same bed will be planted with native wildflowers to ensure color and habitat value well into the summer months.
Club members also took time to clean and prepare the entire garden area for winter, learning the importance of seasonal garden maintenance and habitat stewardship.
Designing New Bird Species Through Creative Inquiry
After wrapping up garden duties, students gathered in the media center to take part in a creative scientific challenge: designing their own bird species. Using what they’ve learned about bird adaptations—beaks, feet, legs, feathers, and feeding strategies—alongside imagination and teamwork, small groups developed brand-new species capable of thriving in unique habitats.
Students documented the adaptations that allow their bird to survive, and later this fall, each group will deliver an oral presentation with a colorful illustration showcasing their creation.
Annual Tree Hike at Kirkmont
This week, the club traveled to Kirkmont Center for their highly anticipated annual tree hike with forester Steve McGinnis. Despite the windy afternoon, students eagerly split into two groups for immersive learning experiences.
Mr. McGinnis led half the students through Kirkmont’s woodland trails, teaching them how to identify native tree species, why certain trees grow where they do, and how woodland plants have historically been used for a variety of medicinal purposes. The hike also highlighted how both environmental factors and human actions influence forest health.
Meanwhile, the other half of the group worked on an important conservation project: the creation of two new pollinator gardens at Kirkmont. Students learned about seed varieties, planting methods, and the ecological importance of pollinators before preparing and seeding the beds. These gardens will provide habitat and beauty for future visitors to enjoy.
A Month of Growth—For Students and the Land
From owls to wildflowers to woodland ecology, the past several weeks have given ESC members countless opportunities to connect with nature and strengthen their skills as young environmental stewards.
The Logan County Land Trust is proud to help support this program and its mission of nurturing the next generation’s understanding and appreciation of our natural environment.erving the land is about more than fields and forests—it’s about protecting a way of life.