If you are thinking of taking a class that will take you out of your comfort zone and off campus, Outdoor Ecology is the class for you.
In Outdoor Ecology, students must be ready to explore. Half the class time is used for field studies and adventures into local surroundings including Mt. Tom, Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, swamps, and more.
The course’s main goal is for the students to gain a deep understanding and appreciation for the living world, all while sharpening their scientific skills.
One of the first classes, Sept. 22, students had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Todd Katzner, who works for the federal government, and right now focuses on Kazakhstan bird migration. The Zoom interview with the professional helped students comprehend more about how scientists gather all the information and keep the animals as safe as possible.
Teacher Jane Lucia believes everyone can take something away from Outdoor Ecology.
“Some may take the class because they have an interest in nature, find it enjoyable and want to learn more,” she said. “I believe all people benefit from understanding ecology, how living things interact with each other and their environment, and am thrilled to work with any student who can fit it into their schedule.”
Lucia strongly believes a student’s connection with nature is vital.
“To quote Aldo Leopold, ‘We abuse land because we see it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see it as a community to which we belong, we may begin to care for it with love and respect.’”
Lucia added, “In addition, [we have the] opportunity to play in the woods, streams, and mud, and to understand that science is the process of how we know what we know as much as it is what we know, and so scientists (ecologists) are out there having some amazing experiences.
Lucia loves sharing her appreciation for nature with her students.
“I am in my element when I can bring students outdoors to observe with all their senses and connect with the natural world,” she said. “I spend a good amount of time lining up for field excursions and prepping materials so students can mess with the local environment. There are always surprises!”
Sebastian Suchecki, a sophomore, believes this class is a good fit for students.
“I chose Outdoor Ecology because it’s a fun way to interact with nature and with my friends,” he said. “It teaches you about sustainable ecosystems, and what we can do to help our planet. We also learn about bird migration, which is interesting to me.”
Camille Armaganian chose Outdoor Ecology to try something new.
“I wanted to learn about something I have never learned about before,” she said. “I like Outdoor Ecology because I am learning about things that I will be able to take with me for a long time. For example, after having a bird unit, I now can identify the birds flying above my head every day.”
Camille’s highlight of the class was exploring the luxurious nature Easthampton has to offer.
“The best experience in Outdoor Ecology was hiking Goat’s Peak [on Mt. Tom] and going up the tower to bird watch,” she said. “As a class we saw so many birds, and even a bird doing a flip within a thermal.”