(LEWISTON) – Nearly 500 fifth graders from 18 schools near Lewiston converged at Hells Gate State Park this week for two days of fun and hands-on discovery about Idaho’s natural resources.
Forestry professionals from the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) joined representatives from wildlife, air, water, and soil conservation agencies for the annual Environmental Awareness Days hosted by the Nez Perce Soil and Water Conservation District.
Stations were set up along the river for students to learn from professionals about forestry, fire, fisheries, entomology, air quality, soils, wildlife, agriculture, and biocontrol.
The IDL instructors explained how the State of Idaho manages its forests to conserve soil, air, and water for the future through timber harvesting followed by tree replanting. They also explained the agency’s role in fighting wildfire, which can threaten water quality, air quality, and the health of other natural resources. Students got the chance to try on full fire gear and use radios to role play “calling dispatch.”
