SLV Wetlands
Introduction
About:
Students will investigate real data on local hydrology, wetlands and their ecological benefits, and analyze patterns between drought and landscape changes. All external links and supplemental documents are included in the worksheet.
Part 1: Introduction: 10 minutes
Watch the introduction video as a class and formulate questions
Part 2: Jigsaw stations: 15-20 minutes per station
Divided into groups, students analyze wetland data
Part 3: Letter writing or presentations: 30 minutes
Students communicate what they've learned through writing or oral presentation
Standard: SC.HS.3.4, SC.HS.2.6
Activity Worksheet
Student Worksheet
Answers to Student Worksheet
Presentation slides for Part 3
Activities are based on information from the following sources: (links found in student worksheet)
San Luis Valley Wetlands and Wildlife Assessment by Wetland Dynamics LLC
Grain for Cranes Story Map by Colorado Open Lands
Colorado Wetland Information Center
Hydrologic data from NOA and CO DWR
Additional Resources
Videos
Questions
What Makes A Wetland A Wetland
(3:44)
1. What three components make up a wetland?
2. What are 3 benefits of wetlands mentioned in the video?
Blanca Wetlands Prescribed Fire
(3:17)
1. What is the purpose of the prescribed burn?
2. What is one human benefit of the project?
Cranes, Agriculture, and the Fight for Water in the San Luis Valley
(9:02)
1. Describe the connection between agriculture and crane migration.
2. What would be the consequences if the drought continues and water export proposals succeed?
Resource Pages
Colorado Natural Heritage Program :
Colorado Wetland Field guides and Apps
USFWS : SLV refuge complex
