During the 2017 to 2018 school year, Bel Air High School got their very own baby trout to raise to study their effect on an ecosystem.

Bel Air will be raising the trout from eggs to fry, while monitoring the tank water quality daily. This study increases the students’ engagement in stream habitat study, and begins to foster a conservation ethic with in them, while giving the trout a good home this entire process, helping grow the understanding of ecosystems.

“This is an amazing experience and leaning opportunity for our students. Watching these fish grow will aid all my classes in better understanding ecosystem, habitats, and the development of animals,” said, Mr. Hedelson, one of the environmental teachers at Bel Air High School.

Most programs end the year by releasing their trout in a state-approved stream near the school or within a nearby watershed. Bel Air will keep the trout in the greenhouse as they become older.

“I love to see how much they have already changed and grown since we got them, and I can’t wait to see how big they get!” said, Sofia Garcia, student of Mr. Hedelson’s.

During the year, each teacher modifies the program to fit his or her curricular needs. Trout mostly, use colors and patterns as camouflage based on their surroundings. Trout generally feed on other fish as a food source.

This is a great experience for students to see the growth and changes of these fish. Bel Air will continue to receive trout each year.