“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.”
This is the cartoon version of my family. I think it sums us up pretty well. MESA covers the Next Generation Science Standards with an environmental science focus. Our 3 year, rotating curriculum covers the major themes and topics below:
Year 1: Forest Ecology
Year 1's focus is on forest ecology:
Over the course of the school year, MESA will work with Tin Mountain for one day each week to teach basic principles of forest ecology and their application to forest resource management. Using various forest study sites, students learn field techniques and collect data on weather, soils, wildlife habitat, watersheds, and conduct a timber
cruise and forest inventory, complete with recommendations. Students analyze the data and develop a complete forest management plan that they present to school officials and the public at a special school/town meeting.
Year 2: EcoHydrology
Year 2 dives into the wonders of water-from its molecular structure and properties, to its incredible inhabitants and its importance on our planet. Activities include stream and watershed studies, raising and releasing trout, aquaponics, invasive aquatic species and more.
Click here to go to unit plans.
Year 3: Earth Science
Year 3 explores geology, astronomy and climate topics. 
