A hands-on learning initiative that began last year with just two classes at St. Patrick’s Catholic High School has now expanded to include all five Grade 9 geography classes. This fall, students took part in a dynamic field trip to a farm in Watford, exploring how retired farmland can be transformed through sustainable practices.

After a brief presentation by the landowner, students divided into groups, with each visiting one of the interactive stations:

• Ponds and Grasslands – Led by the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority, students examined how ponds and grasslands are restored and maintained on retired farmland to support biodiversity.
• Woodlot Management – Presented by the landowner, this station showcased a woodlot planted to enhance soil health and carbon capture.
• Cash Crop Farming – Also led by the landowner, students learned about modern cash crop farming techniques that incorporate best management practices to protect the environment.
• Dairy Farm – Processes, impacts and best practices.

“This experiential learning opportunity not only deepens students’ understanding of land use but also highlights the importance of conservation and sustainable agriculture,” says Robert Walicki, Secondary Curriculum Consultant for St. Clair Catholic.  “The growth of this initiative reflects our Board’s strong commitment to outdoor education and environmental literacy.”