Watershed Moments: Exploring Science and Math in Cullowhee Creek

The Highlands Biological Station connectionMission: to foster research and education focused on the rich natural heritage of the Highlands plateau while preserving and celebrating the the integrity of the “biological crown of the southern Appalachians.”

Institute for the Environment (UNC) at HBS

Coursework and research focused on applied study of the southern Appalachian environment.

For the last 6 years, the IE capstone has focused on stream ecology and hydrology.Cullowhee CreekSavannah CreekCaney ForkHorsepasture River

Stream work with WCU freshmen.

Science with middle school kids.

Science with middle school kids.

Stream systems are shaped by geological, climatic, chemical and biological factors (the River Continuum Concept (RCC). There is a dynamic but predictable gradient of physical, chemical and biological characteristics that can be observed and measured, including width, flow velocity, erosional capacity, temperature, riparian vegetation, and macroinvertebrate assemblages.

Why streams?

This progression presents opportunities for mathematical exploration of stream characteristics, from flow and discharge to erosional force.

It also presents opportunities for biological exploration of stream characteristics, including macroinvertebrates and their feeding guilds.

Waterways are increasingly at risk of impairment from development, agriculture, and other human activities, and the RCC can serve as a scaffold for understanding stream impairment, including accelerated erosional processes, sedimentation, and decreased riparian zones.

The Tuckasegee River watershed encompasses approximately 97% of Jackson County, and the river is important as a source of hydroelectric power, drinking water and tourism.

Cullowhee Creek is ~ 7 miles in length and is especially well suited for teaching and learning about streams owing to (1) its proximity and accessibility, and (2) its basic healthiness punctuated by impacted reaches.

1) engage in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) through outdoor, place-based learning; 2) learn about the sciences of stream ecology and hydrology, and how these are studied;3) understand the nature of scientific investigation;4) examine authentic environmental issues of streams and offer potential solutions; and 5) connect with professionals and experts so that they can better understand what career opportunities are available in STEM fields.

Goals of Watershed Moments

We are partnering with a Cullowhee Valley School teacher, future teachers (undergraduate students studying to become teachers), and a biology graduate student from WCU.

We will work with other biologists, hydrologists, and watershed management professionals from western NC.