Fourth Class recently joined over 120 schools nationwide in taking part in the River Ecosystem Campaign 2026, helping to build a clearer picture of the health of our local rivers.
With the invaluable support of Gerry Merrick, Chairman of Ballisodare Fishing Club, and Ray from the local fishery, the class carried out a kick test at Lackagh Stream, a tributary of the Unshin River. They also gathered water quality data from the Ballisodare River at the fishery.
The children identified a wide range of invertebrates, which act as important indicators of water quality. They were delighted to find many “good guy” species, including flattened mayfly, stonefly and green caddisfly. Very few “bad guy” species such as snails, leeches and water lice were found, suggesting that Lackagh Stream is very clean.
Back at Ballisodare Fishing Club, Gerry spoke to the children about the history of salmon in the river and showed them the salmon ladders built by the Cooper family to support salmon returning to spawn each year.
The class then carried out further scientific testing, measuring water temperature, pH levels, and nitrate and phosphate levels using a range of equipment including thermometers, test strips and indicator charts. Overall, the results showed that the water quality in the river is very good.
During the visit, the children also learned from Gerry about invasive plant species along the river such as Japanese Knotweed & Giant Hogweed. He pointed these out & even gave the children samples of Japanese Knotweed.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable and educational trip. We would like to sincerely thank Gerry and Ray for sharing their time, expertise and enthusiasm. We also extend our thanks to Ms. Hunt and Catherine for accompanying the class on this field trip.
