Discovering, Learning, and Doing: Environmental Science Club Builds Skills for Life and Stewardship

Discovering, learning, and doing—these three words perfectly describe the experience of students in the Benjamin Logan Environmental Science Club (ESC). The start of the new year has been filled with engaging lessons that connect science, health, conservation, and hands-on problem solving.

Understanding the Smallest Forms of Life

January began with a fascinating exploration of the relative sizes of life forms. Students examined just how tiny bacteria and viruses are when compared to something familiar—the width of a human hair. This eye-opening activity led to meaningful discussions about human health, how infections spread, and what steps people can take to reduce the risk of illness.

These lessons will continue in the coming weeks with a follow-up session focused on hygiene and healthful eating, where students will learn to prepare simple, nutritious recipes they can make at home for their families.

Building for Sustainability: Rain Barrels and Outdoor Learning

In the most recent ESC session, students put their mechanical and problem-solving skills to work. With guidance from instructors, the group assembled a rain barrel and a bench that will soon be installed near the elementary school garden.

The rain barrel will collect and store rainfall to help water flowers and pollinator plants around the school, reinforcing lessons about water conservation. The bench—along with a future pergola—will help create an outdoor classroom, expanding learning opportunities beyond the traditional school setting.

Learning About Waterfowl and Building Habitat

Another focus of the meeting was waterfowl, specifically wood ducks. Students learned about wood duck habitat, identification, and unique adaptations. Because wood ducks are cavity nesters, they rely heavily on nesting structures provided by humans.

Putting knowledge into action, students practiced basic construction skills using drills, jigsaws, impact drivers, and proper gluing techniques. These skills were applied to build wood duck nesting boxes, which will be installed this spring in the school land lab, Myeerah Preserve, and Kirkmont Center. Students will also take responsibility for monitoring and maintaining the boxes in the future.

A Strong Partnership for Environmental Education

The Benjamin Logan Environmental Science Club is a partnership between Benjamin Logan Schools and the Logan County Land Trust (LCLT). The program is supported by teachers Spencer Reames, Ryan Kerns, Bruce Smith (also with LCLT), and Bob Stoll of the Logan County Land Trust.

Through experiences like these, the ESC continues to inspire curiosity, build life skills, and foster a deep sense of environmental stewardship among students.