UWL camp brings freshwater science to life through lab and field experiences

This summer, 24 high school students from across Wisconsin came together at UW- La Crosse for a five-day residential freshwater science camp. They deepened their understanding of freshwater ecosystems and made connections between environmental health and human health.

The annual My River Adventures Camp is supported by the Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin and open to students in grades 9-12. Through hands-on investigations, field experiences and conversations with faculty, campers explore the Mississippi River from multiple perspectives and gain experience with the tools and approaches scientists use to study water quality.

"The camp provides students with a deeper understanding of the Mississippi River and the scientific processes used to study it," said Sadie Kuhl, assistant director of College Pathways at UW-La Crosse. "It also gives students a chance to see themselves as scientists and environmental stewards."

Studying Water Quality Firsthand

This year's camp began in a biology laboratory on campus. Students stepped into the role of environmental toxicologists during the session, "From Fins to Folks: Using Zebrafish as Biosensors for River Health and Human Toxicology." Led by biology professor Tisha King-Heiden, campers learned how zebrafish (Danio rerio) can serve as living biosensors to help scientists understand the effects of environmental contaminants. Students explored how pollutants can affect aquatic organisms and human health. Working directly in a laboratory setting allowed students to experience scientific research firsthand and see how model organisms can help researchers investigate complex environmental health questions.

Students continued their exploration of freshwater science through field-based learning on Goose Island. In "Seeing, Tasting, and Smelling Water Quality," campers considered a question that sounds simple but has important scientific implications: Can our senses tell us whether water is clean and safe?

Students used sight, smell and taste to make observations about water quality. They then compared their observations to water quality measurements taken by professionals using scientific instruments. The activity encouraged students to think critically about the difference between everyday observations and scientific measurements.

Into the Field and Onto the Water

In the "River Connections" session, students used binoculars, a short hike, demonstrations and a biomagnification game to observe species living along the river's edge and explore how organisms are connected through food webs and their shared environment. They also created visual representations of these ecosystem connections. Importantly, the session introduced students to the idea that environmental studies involves more than collecting scientific data; decision-making, communication, and storytelling are also essential tools for understanding and protecting natural resources.

The campers' learning continued aboard a research vessel on the Mississippi River. Students conducted activities focused on water quality and measured the movement of water through the river. They applied concepts from earlier sessions in an authentic research environment, collecting observations and data while traveling along the river and stopping at an island to conduct additional activities.

"These experiences gave students a unique opportunity to move from the laboratory to the shoreline to the river itself," Kuhl said. "Rather than simply learning about environmental science in a classroom, campers worked alongside faculty, asked questions, made observations, collected data, and considered how freshwater ecosystems affect both wildlife and people."

The next My River Adventures Camp will be offered July 26-30, 2027. Learn about additional freshwater science opportunities for high school students.