Coopersville Middle School students recently celebrated another successful year of conservation efforts with the release of 118 Chinook Salmon into the Grand River at the Eastmansville boat launch on May 1 and 2.
The release marked a major milestone, bringing the district’s five-year total to 410 salmon released into the Grand River. This year’s salmon averaged 4.5 inches, or 11.4 centimeters, with the largest reaching 6 inches. Students now look ahead to the possibility of salmon returning to these waters later this fall.
This year also marked a new milestone for students in Jason Hicks’ Middle School Environmental Science class with participation in the Lake Sturgeon initiative for the first time.
A Lake Sturgeon named “Fin Diesel” was released into the Black River near Onaway after showing significant growth throughout the year. Fin began at 24 centimeters and 59 grams and grew to 52 centimeters and 654 grams by release day.
The experience provided students with hands-on learning opportunities connected to Michigan’s natural resources, aquatic ecosystems, and conservation efforts.
Following this year’s success, the class plans to continue participating in both the salmon and sturgeon conservation efforts in the years ahead.
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