Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area Middle School Programs
A description of the academic standards correlated with each program is available. Links to lesson plans are found within the program descriptions.
Programs
History of Horicon
The Story of Wildlife Management
Wisconsin Mammals
Tracking in Wisconsin
Birding Basics
Avian Adaptations
Insect Biodiversity
Pond Investigation
Animal Habitats and Their Management
Snowshoe Programs
History of Horicon
Students will learn the fascinating story of how, over time, Horicon Marsh was completely destroyed and then painstakingly re-built to its present condition. Through this program, they will study the impacts of human development on an ecosystem both past, and present.
Time: 30 - 45 minutes
Academic Standards Addressed:
Science: E.8.6, G.8.3
Environmental Education: B.8.5, B.8.10, B.8.15, B.8.16, B.8.17
The Story of Wildlife Management
Through this slide show, your class can learn about the events leading to the birth of Wildlife Management. They will also look at some case studies in which wildlife management has played an important role.
Time: 45 minutes
Academic Standards Addressed:
Environmental Education: B.8.3, B.8.15, B.8.16, B.8.23, B.8.24
Wisconsin Mammals
Explore the exciting world of mammals as your class learns the identities of some Wisconsin native residents. Students will learn about these animals life histories, as well as how they are equipped to survive in a very competitive world. This program can be conducted at Horicon Marsh, or right in your own classroom.
Time: 30 minutes
Academic Standards Addressed:
Science: F.8.2
Tracking in Wisconsin
Mud and snow are fantastic places to find signs of those animals we don't always see. In this program, your class will learn how to identify the tracks and track patterns of some common Wisconsin animals. Examination of the footprints of these animals will reveal how different feet help different animals navigate the winter snow or survive in their everyday environment. In winter months, when snow is on the ground, your class can go on an adventure as they identify tracks and discover activity signs left behind by Horicon's resident wildlife.
Time: 1 - 2 hours
Birding Basics
Your class can learn a great new skill while enjoying the great outdoors. The program begins with an introduction on how to identify birds by sight and sound. After a quick lesson on binocular use, they're off! This tour takes place in Horicon Marsh where they can practice what they learned on the area's residents and migrants.
Time: 1 ½ - 2 hours
Avian Adaptations
When an owl eats its prey whole, where does it go? How does a hawk track rodents through tall grass? Learn the answer to these questions and more when your class examines the different ways birds deal with everyday life, whether through adaptation or behavior. This program is available at Horicon Marsh or in your own classroom.
Time: 1 - 1 ½ hours
Academic Standards Addressed:
Science: F.8.2, F.8.7
Environmental Education: B.8.8
Insect Biodiversity
This program begins with an exciting look into the basic morphology of insects. Through the process of transect sampling using insect nets, your class will get a chance to compare the presence of different species and populations in various vegetational areas. By studying the different specimens caught, students will be able to compare their adaptations, survival needs, and day-to-day interactions.
Time: 1 - 1 ½ hours
Academic Standards Addressed:
Science: F.8.2, F.8.8
Environmental Education: B.8.3
Pond Investigation
Through the use of key charts, students will learn to identify organisms they catch out of the pond using dip nets. They will learn about the adaptations and interactions between these amazing organisms and how they depend on the plants and other animals present in the aquatic system. By looking for the presence of these creatures, your class will also be able to gauge the health of the area being studied.
Time: 1 ½ - 2 hours
Academic Standards Addressed:
Science: F.8.2, F.8.8
Environmental Education: B.8.8, B.8.21
Animal Habitats and Their Management
How is it possible for a large number of animals to co-exist in a small space? After a quick review of what components need to be present for quality habitat, our Naturalists will take you on a hike around the Horicon Marsh Goose Pond to find out what animals reside in Horicon Marsh. Through discussion, your class will learn how Wildlife Managers work with the land so everyone can co-exist together in this relatively small place.
Time: 1 - 1 ½ hours
Academic Standards Addressed:
Environmental Education: B.8.5, B.8.8, B.8.10, B.8.22
Snowshoe Programs
Exploring the World of Ice and Snow on Snowshoes
Students will learn the history of snowshoeing in Wisconsin. They will gain an understanding of the value many cultures placed on snowshoes to survive harsh winters. The structure of snowshoes and walking techniques will be taught as well as the appropriate attire needed for any winter outdoor activity. All participants will be given hands on experience with snowshoeing while taking a guided interpreted hike on the frozen marsh. * Snowshoes were attained via a Wisconsin Environmental Education Board (WEEB) grant.
Time: 1 ½-2 hours
Academic Standards Addressed:
Social Studies
B.4.8
Horicon Marsh Amateur Tracker
Students and adults will be able to hike into the marsh on the ice by foot or by snowshoe (snow permitting). They will investigate how different flora and fauna use adaptations to survive winter in an icy marsh. Students will search through the cattails for tracks and signs, as well as watch for the clues of animals. Each student will then be able to make a plaster cast in the classroom to take home. Snowshoes were attained via a WEEB grant.
Academic Standards Addressed:Science: F.4.1, F.4.3, F.4.4
Contact Information
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area
N7725 Hwy 28
Horicon, WI 53032
(920) 387-7860
Questions for Wildlife Management
RSS