FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  September 29, 2004
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112

"Life" Welcomes Franklin County Students

--Apalachicola Research Reserve is gateway to discovery—

APALACHICOLA— Environmental education for Franklin County students is stepping out of the classroom this week into the natural setting of the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve. The field-based science program for seventh graders, Learning in Florida's Environment (LIFE), is holding its first day-long field experiments this week at the Reserve. Students will analyze estuarine water quality, classify soil and study the influence of non-living environmental factors on plants.

“The Research Reserve provides a classroom without walls, encouraging students to experience science and nature,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “By exploring one of Florida’s most unique natural communities, students gain a broader understanding of their environment and the importance of protecting coastal lands and waters.”

Franklin County is the first school district in the state to participate in the LIFE program, designed to expand science education with hands-on, field based learning. Teachers lead in developing field laboratory activities that integrate and reinforce the existing curriculum. The program targets rural schools and aims to improve student achievement, support teacher development and enhance stewardship of the region’s unique natural resources.

LIFE combines the Department’s scientific, research and conservation expertise with the needs of Florida’s teachers, students and schools. The program creates a statewide network of environmental and marine-science field laboratories at state-owned facilities that foster interest in research, technology and environmental science.

Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve is one of only 26 reserves in the nation. Including more than 50 miles of the Apalachicola River, the Reserve spans over 246,000 acres of floodplain, salt marsh, barrier islands, estuary and uplands. Apalachicola Bay supports a recreational and commercial fishery that produces 90 percent of Florida’s oysters, 10 percent of the nation's oysters and supports the state’s third-largest shrimp harvest.

 

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