Swimming Upstream
Discovering the World of Salmon
Observing rainbow trout - a freshwater fish that’s part of the Salmonidae family - at the MK Nature Center in Boise
Guided learning helps build student’s existing knowledge of the subject at hand - providing context to real-world observations
At EverWild Forest School, learning comes to life through stories, exploration, and real-world discovery—and this week’s lesson on salmon was no exception! Our students began their journey by reading a beautifully illustrated book about the salmon life cycle, following these incredible fish from their birth in freshwater streams to their long migration out to sea and back again. As we read, students asked thoughtful questions and brainstormed why salmon are important—not just for rivers and ecosystems, but for bears, birds, people, and even the forest itself.
We talked about how salmon bring vital nutrients from the ocean back into freshwater ecosystems, feeding everything from eagles to trees. The kids were amazed to learn that when salmon return to their home stream to spawn and die, their bodies nourish the surrounding land—an incredible example of nature’s interconnectedness. This sparked some big ideas and even bigger curiosity.
Later in the week, the Forest Friday class visited the MK Nature Center, where students had the unforgettable opportunity to see rainbow trout - close cousin of the Pacific salmon species we had studied - up close! As they observed the trout swimming gracefully through the clear water, they learned about the different species of salmon found in Idaho, including Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye, and how each plays a special role in the ecosystem. Educators at the Nature Center shared insights into their natural history and the many challenges these fish face, from dams and warming waters to pollution and habitat loss.
Our Forest Friday class spotted lots of rainbow trout during their field trip!
Seeing these powerful swimmers in person helped our students connect their classroom learning to the natural world around them. They left with a deeper appreciation for salmon and their place in Idaho’s rivers—and a growing sense of responsibility to help protect them. It’s experiences like these that make forest school learning so memorable, meaningful, and wild!