Skolbäcken – like running water
Learning about nature by being in nature – this is the essence of the Skolbäcken concept. Through hands-on learning at a nearby lake, stream or sea, children learn how life below the surface works, while helping to improve the environment for fish and other aquatic organisms. The aim is to bring learning alive and give pupils an understanding of how ecosystems are connected. Research from the University of Gothenburg has shown that Skolbäcken is a unique example of nature conservation-oriented outdoor education that creates both engagement and concrete knowledge.
Skolbäcken show that the future of nature conservation starts at school. Giving children and young people the opportunity to contribute to healthier streams and lakes creates both knowledge and lasting commitment.
School stream at Tivoli Brook
Within Improve Aquatic LIFE, we will carry out many school stream activities. One of these activities was carried out the other day by the Swedish Anglers Association, which is one of many project partners. The activity was carried out at Tivolibäcken in Torekov, which flows into the Natura 2000 area Northwest Skåne marine area (Southern Kattegat and Öresund). During this school creek activity, the children were allowed to dig for bottom-dwelling animals to see what is hiding under the surface. Many crayfish were found, much to the delight of the children. The children were also able to create a spawning bed for the sea trout, which will hopefully like the new spawning area and eventually contribute to more fish in the stream but also in the sea. We also caught some small trout during the activity. A very successful day!
Skolbäcken activity at Tivoli stream in Torekov.
Photo: Emma Toral