Eels in the Classroom

Eels in the Classroom (EIC) is an experimental, small-scale environmental education opportunity provided by the Susquehanna River Basin Commission. Headed by fisheries biologist Aaron Henning, the program provides juvenile American eels to educators to raise in their classrooms and ultimately release back into the Susquehanna River. The EIC project partners with other natural resource agencies and the operators of Conowingo Dam who have been collectively working to bring eels back to their native waters. Students learn about the value and importance of migratory fish through the ecosystem functions they perform.

Participants

In 2018, the first EIC program included two participants: Lewisburg Area High School and the Bradford County Conservation District. Since then the program has grown by word of mouth to include participants in the table below. If you are interested in participating in the EIC program, please fill out the form at https://www.srbc.gov/our-work/american-eels/contact.html.

The Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership at the Montour Preserve in Danville, PA PA offers a great opportunity for virtual learners to see elvers up close from any location. Special thanks to Vernal School staff, The Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association, the Montour Area Recreation Commission and Fessler IT Consulting for creating and maintaining this unique opportunity.

Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Live Stream

For more information please visit The Vernal School’s website.

Donegal Intermediate School in Marietta, PA also offers a livestream of their tank, located in the library for all students to see. Students in 3rd-6th grade learn about the American eel as part of their STEM and library classes. Special thanks to Mr. Wulfkuhle, Ms. Shoemaker, and library staff for creating and maintaining this unique opportunity.

Donegal Intermediate School Live Stream