Trout in the Classroom (TIC) is an environmental education program in which students in grades K-12 . . .
- raise trout from eggs to fry.
- monitor tank water quality.
- engage in stream habitat study.
- learn to appreciate water resources.
- begin to foster a conservation ethic.
- grow to understand ecosystems.
Most programs end the year by releasing their trout in a state-approved stream near the school or within a nearby watershed. During the year each teacher tailors the program to fit his or her curricular needs. Therefore, each program is unique. TIC has interdisciplinary applications in science, social studies, mathematics, language arts, fine arts, and physical education. For more information on possible activities and lessons, please see Trout Unlimited's TIC site. In the Sac-Sierra Chapter region, TIC is facilitated through the "Classroom Aquarium Education Program" of the California Department of Fish and Game.
It is Sac-Sierra Chapter's wish that students participating in the Trout in the Classroom program learn valuable lessons regarding water quality and aquatic life, and thereby acquire a purposeful conservation ethic and become committed stewards of our world.
Kevin Mather coordinated Sac-Sierra Chapter's first Trout in the Classroom efforts in 2008. Three classroom teachers signed up to participate, and attended the mandatory workshop in October. They were accompanied by two volunteer chapter members as well. Unfortunately, the salmon spawn in 2008 was so light on the American River, that the Nimbus Fish Hatchery and CDFG could not provide salmon eggs for the Fall semester.