We've been learning about population sampling methods this week. Today, students used some of these methods to determine the number of trout in our tank. The results from our three classes were: 112, 113 and 105 trout. Students found the most reliable method to be direct observation, and the least reliable method to be random sampling.
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In the wild, members of the Dept of Natural Resources determine fish populations by electro-shocking sections of a stream. This method is done annually on specific sections of streams in order to compare fish counts from year to year. The shocking temporarily disables the fish and they float to the surface where they are carefully netted, measured, and released. Netting alone would not work as the fish would scatter at any attempt to contain them. You might want to ask a member of the DNR who does this type of work to visit your class and talk further about this. The DNR encourages assistance from the public in electro-shocking. If you have the appropriate waders and boots you can get in the water and help. If not, you can observe from the shore. If the DNR plans to electo-shock a local stream on a weekend you might be able to help or watch.
Wow...how interesting! We'll try to get someone into our class to talk with us about that. Thanks Mr. Dinkel!
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