To the editor:

Norwood-Norfolk Elementary School third grade classes would like to thank the many volunteers at the Indian Creek Nature Center for our recent field trip.

The nature center is over 300 acres of land near Rensselaer Falls, between the Oswegatchie and Grasse Rivers.

Our students enjoyed a trail through the woods with guide Ray Erickson, including a boardwalk overlooking a marsh with beaver and muskrat lodges. Eileen Wheeler instructed students on use of binoculars and bird identification at the bird tower. John Bursnall and Catherine Shrady brought a display of rocks and minerals from St. Lawrence University for students to examine.

Nature Up North members Jacob Malcolm, India Harvey, and Cailand Sweeting identified the pond life, dragonflies, and damselflies that students caught with nets.

These volunteers provided memorable, hands-on learning activities for students. We are fortunate to have such dedicated volunteers who foster an appreciation for nature. The center is free and open to the public. More information and directions can be found on their website indiancreeknaturecenter.us.

Cheryl Shumway, Sue Johnner-Brothers, Michelle Beauchamp, Kelly Russell

Norwood-Norfolk Elementary School third grade teachers