Freshwater Focus: Turtles, Fish and Water Literacy

Lake Doctor | A Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams Podcast

Can tank safety teach kids about personal space and environmental respect? Join us as we sit down with Leslie Tharp, the passionate school librarian from North Webster Elementary School, to uncover how her love for turtles and nature has shaped her educational journey. We'll explore Leslie's heartfelt stories of protecting baby turtles from raccoons, a family project that blossomed at Camp Crosley. Learn how Leslie's transition from teaching to library science has been influenced by her deep-seated love for research and wildlife conservation.

But that's not all! Leslie also shares her innovative approach to teaching environmental stewardship by implementing tank safety in her library. We discuss how observing fish tank dynamics helps students understand personal space and the feelings of other creatures. Additionally, dive into the world of local turtle species, their crucial ecological roles, and Leslie's thrilling adventures in spelunking and interest in bat conservation. Dr. Nate Bosch and Emily from the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams amplify the conversation with insights into the "Lake in the Library" program, highlighting how aquariums help young students grasp the importance of clean water and environmental care. This episode beautifully weaves together themes of family, education, and conservation, promising a wealth of inspiring stories and valuable insights.

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1. Lake Science and Water Literacy Initiatives (00:00:00)

2. Turtle Protection and Education (00:11:42)

3. Aquatic Ecosystem Education and Protection (00:23:47)