Fifth Graders learn about conservation

Rock Hills fifth graders had a perfect fall afternoon, Sept. 30, at the Mankato City Park.

The students learned first hand, the importance of Riparian Areas as Sherry Koster, Jewell County Conservation District manager, presented the Stream Flow Trailer. Students were reminded that the state reptile, the ornate box turtle, can live in riparian areas along streams, rivers and lakes. Stream bank erosion and how to stabilize stream banks was also discussed.

Thad Rhodes, District forester, explained how trees benefit north central Kansas. A large cottonwood, the state tree of Kansas, was the perfe...