Melinda Storey

Storey's project, "Gardening Galore," comprised a nature trail in a nearby woods, a hummingbird garden, a butterfly garden, and an outdoor classroom. Storey's project also allowed students to create a guide book for visitors on the trail, two original, interactive multi-media CD's, and a curriculum complete with materials for activities on the trail. Stephanie M. Cornwell-George (2008) Mt. Iliamna Elementary School Eagle River, AK Because salmon plays a vital role in the Alaskan economy and lifestyle, Cornwell-George has partnered with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to launch a "Salmon Incubation Project" to provide 20 students with a hands-on education of the life cycle of these fish. Students will research the Alaskan salmon, prepare the appropriate tank environment for salmon eggs, and take a trip to Campbell Creek to catch a spawning pair of salmon, collect 500 eggs and fertilize them. They will be expected to care for the tank, take/record temperature, learn about water quality, and nurture the salmon once they hatch. The project includes a trip to the creek in the fall to collect bugs and plants. Students will determine the health of a river by the type of bugs and plants living there. The project culminates with a trip back to Campbell Creek to release the salmon where they'll someday return to spawn and complete the cycle once again. The students will ultimately be able to explain the life cycle of the Alaskan salmon and how it affects Alaska and their community. Cornwell-George lives in Eagle River.