ADVICE TO TEACHERS WISHING TO RAISE FISH IN CLASSROOMS
First, determine this important information:
- Do the streams or rivers near your school support fish? What kinds?
- Will environmental agencies allow you to stock raised fish?
- Is there a nearby hatchery as a source of eggs?
- What might be limiting factors for fish survival in streams or rivers near your school?
Think about what assistance you may need:
- We recommend networking with several schools so teachers and students can share information.
- A teacher training program will give confidence and provide useful information. Contact the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in your area, the fisheries department of your state environmental agency, Trout Unlimited chapters, colleges or universities, fish and game clubs, and local river or watershed groups to help with training and/or classroom visits. Possible topics for a training program might include: history of the fish species you wish to raise; water quality, habitat quality, and historical/contemporary land uses in your watershed; the greatest issues and concern of environmental agencies; and how to set up, insulate, and maintain aquariums.
Think about your classroom and field trips:
- Do you have the budget and table/bench/or refrigerator space for an aquarium? (See appendices)
- Can you take field trips? Although not necessary, students will enjoy and learn from a trip to a hatchery and from lessons tied to stream field trips.