'Wild Washington' set to launch

OLYMPIA - The state Department of Fish and Wildlife will launch a new fish, wildlife and natural resource-themed lessons plan program for elementary, middle school and high school Friday.

Wild Washington lessons are developed for teachers, homeschool parents, youth groups and informal learning experiences, officials said.

The first live broadcast, at 10 a.m. Jan. 22, is "Beavers, Nature's Engineers." Students will be able to learn from a wildlife conflict specialist who helps beavers and landowners co-exist.

"Getting kids connected to nature is key to protecting the future health of our waterways, landscapes, fish and wildlife," agency Director Kelly Susewind said. "Wild Washington lessons are a way for us to help caregivers, community partners, and schools bring natural science – which exists right on the other side of every window – into the lives of today's youth in relevant, tangible, and exciting ways."

Wild Washington consists of 14 lessons, with a new lesson released on the agency website each Friday through June 11. Lessons are available for three different student grade levels: 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12.