Weird, Wacky Water Critters Workshop at the Rogers Co. Conservation Education Reserve in Claremore, Oklahoma.

Teachers and students clear away ice at the Rogers County Conservation Education Reserve in Claremore, Oklahoma on Thursday in Order to sample Macroinvertebrates.  The training sponsored by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality and the Rogers County Conservation District hosted 25 teachers and students from around the state.  The workshop was part of the Environmental Education Grants program and is funded by the purchase of Oklahoma Environmental Awareness License Tags for vehicles.  Applications for tags may be obtained at your local tag agent or by calling DEQ at 405-702-7138.  Twenty four of the $35 purchase price goes to the Environmental Education Fund.  Wynona Public School has received funding from this program the past two years.  The funds allow us to purchase equipment and materials, host guest scientists, and to spend the day at the Tall Grass Prairie doing real inquiry based science in the field.  In addition to aquatic macroinvertebrates like crayfish, mayfly and dragonfly nymphs, and water striders, our students will also study reptiles and amphibians, plants, and fish.  Guest professors and college students will assist with the field investigations and will allow Wynona students to get a taste of what scientists really do.  This expedition is just what our small town kids need.  I CHALLENGE OUR CITIZENS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS TO GET IN INVOLVED OR TO HELP SPONSOR THIS EVENT.  Last year several parents and teachers helped sponsor the event.  I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to those individuals. You are all invited to attend again this year.  The date is yet to be scheduled, but will likely take place in late April or early May.  For more information, questions, or suggestions contact Doyle Crosswhite at dcrosswhite@wynona.k12.ok.us or call 580-541-4129.