For the past twelve years, students from Philomath High School have been conducting original plant and animals field studies in the Newton Creek Wetlands. Studies are designed and conducted by the students, using protocols accepted by professional research. As the school year progresses, students become attached to the ecosystem they are studying. They begin to recognize plant communities and associated wildlife in the different areas of the wetland. They begin to understand the interdependencies between organisms and abiotic factors in the environment, and how managing for one species may affect another.

Over 100 species of vertebrate animals and 50 species of plants have been identified on the site. One of the students’ favorite topics of study is Western Pond Turtles. Working with professional researchers, they are gathering data and developing a management plan to enhance turtle reproduction and survival.