David Zietlow - Toe-Cane Watershed Coordinator
Fifth graders from Mitchell and Yancey counties left their classrooms and traveled to local waterways for some hands on, and toes in, education. Named after the South and North Toe rivers, the “Toes in the Toe” event first began 15 years ago. Over the years this event has provided many highlights for the beginnings of 5th graders’ school years.
This was an opportunity for students to understand the special area where they live, which is home to the endangered Appalachian Elktoe mussel and the Eastern hellbender, an extraordinarily large aquatic salamander currently under consideration for Endangered Species Act protections.
Students spent the days rotating through five different stations. At the Water Bug Safari, students got their feet wet while catching and documenting macroinvertebrates with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who also helped lead the Fantastic Fish station alongside the members of the Blue Ridge Resource, Conservation and Development (BRRCD).
The Riverlink organization used an engaging, interactive model to demonstrate how wetlands and pavement can affect flooding and watershed function. The Toe Cane Beekeepers emphasized the importance of pollinators and showcased some tricks from their trade. The Penland School of Craft helped students explore aquatic organisms through art. During their time at these stations, these fifth graders had unique access to 20 professionals and experts in these subjects.