Mother Nature rains on Earth Day
Comet staff report

Flowers at the park Some second graders didn't get to plant flowers at the Earth Day event because of the rain, but those who attended last Thursday had their chance. Pictured, l-r, are Hillcrest students Carson Noonkester and Austin Trent. Comet photo by Jennifer Archibald

Two hundred and twentythree second grade students took part in Earth Day activities at the Flora Park last week, but had to spend most of their time indoors. Several events had to be restructured for indoors because of the weather.

Students from Camden, Hillcrest and Carroll elementary schools each spent an educational and fun day studying the water cycle, discussing recycling, and eating their way through an "edible landfill."

At a hands-on station, they were able to distinguish between sand, silt and clay in the soil while keeping an eye out for sowbugs, grubs, earthworms and ants!

Recycling materials into crafts is always a highlight. The second graders were able to make paper bead bracelets, butterfly coffee filters, lady bug egg carton insects, and sticker book albums from cereal and pop boxes.

Soil of the earth Second graders learned about soil ingredients at Earth Day at the Flora Park. Containers of the separated ingredients (sand, silt, and clay) were passed around. Here, students are taking a pinch of clay. Comet photo by Jennifer Archibald

Sponsors of the event were the Carroll County Soil and Water Conservation District, along with Purdue Extension and grant assistance from Operation Round-Up-Carroll County.

Rhonda Hicks of the CCSWCD said this is the first year, out of seven, that ended in a "rained out" day.

"Even with the wet weather, students were eager to learn about the world we live in," she said.

Environmental bingo Students at Earth Day in Flora played a learning game called environmental bingo. Pictured assisting these Camden Elementary second graders is parent volunteer Michelle Redmon. Comet photo by Jennifer Archibald