Wildlife Without Walls

Student learning experiences are enhanced by field trips to fresh and brackish water south shore wetlands. Students study native and migratory birds, native and invasive limu (seaweed), fish and crabs, investigate a hypothesis, sample water quality (pH, salinity, turbidity), and learn how to use GPS equipment for GIS mapping. Students learn the role coastal wetlands play in the protection of low-lying areas by buffering tsunami and storm surge, and how wetlands collect sediment from upslope erosion thereby mitigating degradation of near-shore resources.

Teacher wetland workshops are funded by the Maui Digital Bus Ho‘okuleana Project For Educators. Classroom curriculum components include scientific inquiry, environmental monitoring, island stewardship, and appropriate technology use.