Prescribed Burns in Wisconsin Restore Nature with Fire

by Siheon Park, age 12

Prescribed fires are controlled by the local government in a predetermined area, intended to restore balance to natural communities.

There are several benefits to prescribed fires as they stimulate plant growth, create pockets of water, increase biodiversity, and enrich the soil. Without these burns, organic matter builds up, making the soil worse and putting forests at risk of more intense wildfires. For thousands of years, Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians used fire to support species of plants and animals, including those in Wisconsin which have adapted well to fire. In the 20th century, cultural burning was paused due to government efforts to suppress all fires. Over the past few decades, however, cultural burning has become more widely accepted.

Fire season occurs during the spring or fall, usually starting in March and August. The City of Madison Parks and Engineering Divisions are responsible for conducting prescribed burns in Madison. Before any fire is started, experienced professional staff and contractors who are certified and have permits from the Madison Fire Department must prepare a detailed plan. Residents within 400 feet are notified about the burn, either through an email from their alderperson or a postcard in the mail. Fire managers may spend one or two days preparing before the burn begins. [Read More]

Blanchard’s Cricket Frog Listed as Endangered in Wisconsin

by Ermiyas Abiy, age 9

A tiny frog that is native to Wisconsin is getting closer to extinction. This frog is called the Blanchard's cricket frog, and it’s only an inch long!

The Blanchard’s cricket frog typically lives near ponds, lakes, streams, and other bodies of water. You can find these amphibians in the southwest area of Wisconsin. They live in mud flats, marshes, meadows, and other wetlands.

This amphibian can’t dig its holes during winter, so it goes into other existing dwellings. It will go into crayfish burrows, rotted root channels, and tiny mammal burrows. Blanchard’s cricket frogs need to find a dwelling that is at least 33 degrees Fahrenheit because they can’t withstand freezing temperatures. [Read More]

It’s “World Migratory Bird Day” in Wisconsin

by Sofia Zapata, age 16

May 10 is World Migratory Bird Day in Wisconsin. This is an opportunity to watch our state’s native bird species fly the local skies.

This “opening day” for bird lovers kicks off a series of bird festivals during the next few weeks. World Migratory Bird Day is about the time when bird traffic returning from the South reaches its peak.

The theme for World Migratory Bird Day in 2025 is “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and communities.” The theme highlights the practice of creating and adapting urban and rural spaces to support migratory bird populations. [Read More]

Plan to Reroute Water from Badger Mill Creek Sparks Concern

by Sedona Afeworki, age 16

Some Dane County residents are displeased that Badger Mill Creek will lose most of its water flow. The Madison Metro Sewerage District (MMSD) plans to reroute the water to Badfish Creek because of high phosphorus levels.

Phosphorus is a chemical element, it is naturally present in our bodies, food, and environment. While it is a necessary element, too much phosphorus can cause problems such as hyperphosphatemia, an electrolyte disorder caused by high intakes of phosphorus in a short amount of time. Badger Mill Creek was previously an area for people to come to enjoy the outdoors and a class II trout stream. Unfortunately, phosphorus levels in the water have exceeded legal limits in Wisconsin, posing risks for surrounding communities.

The legal phosphorus level in Wisconsin is 0.075 trillion parts per gallon of water, yet the level right now in Badger Mill Creek is 0.3. Currently, this water flows to areas such as Madison, Verona, and Upper Sugar River. To protect other waterways and communities, the Madison Metro Sewerage District wants to cut off the creek’s water supply and redirect it into Badfish Creek. While the sewerage district hasn’t finalized this plan, community members are displeased and worried that the Badger Mill Creek will dry up. [Read More]

How to Protect Evergreens From Winter Burn

by Ian Kosharek, age 12

Winter burn is a common problem among evergreen trees. It is caused when evergreens lose more water than they can replenish and it can worsen in low temperatures. Boxwood and Rhododendron evergreens are the most prone to winter burn.

There aren't many symptoms of winter burn, however some of them include browning at branch tips, entirely browned leaves, or dead branches. Foliage facing southwest, west, and south are the most affected by winter burn.

For evergreens with winter burn, simply pruning the dead foliage in mid-spring after the growing season can allow healthy foliage growth. [Read More]

What Happened to the Aral Sea?

by Dulce Vazquez, age 15

The Aral Sea was once the fourth-largest lake in the world but is now practically gone. This sea is located in Central Asia, between southern Kazakhstan and northern Uzbekistan.

The Aral Sea is actually a saltwater lake, as it has no outlet to the ocean. It was formed by water flowing from various rivers and glacial melt. As one of the largest lakes, the Aral provided water and fish, which were crucial to the region. It supported farming, the fishing industry, and even tourism in the area, attracting people from surrounding regions.

However, the Soviet Union initiated a major water diversion project in the 1960s to irrigate cotton fields. Water from the rivers feeding the Aral Sea had been diverted for irrigation by the Soviet Union since the 1920s, but the 1960s saw the beginning of large-scale redirection. The Aral Sea, once deep blue and teeming with fish, had shrunk to half its original size by the end of the 1960s. The decline continued, and by 1987, the lake split into the Northern Aral Sea in Kazakhstan and the Southern Aral Sea in Uzbekistan. [Read More]

Have You Spotted the Bright Red Bird?

by Delia Moreno, age 7

Male and female cardinals have different colors, males are a vibrant red, while females are a warm golden-brown with hints of red on their wings, tail, and crest.

The northern cardinal’s diet includes seeds, fruits, insects, and worms, and they often visit bird feeders, especially during colder months.

Cardinals sit on their eggs to keep them safe and warm. This process is called incubation, and it is usually done by the female. When the eggs hatch, both parents take turns feeding the chicks. Their eggs are typically grayish or brownish with white or dark speckles, and they usually lay two to five eggs at a time. [Read More]

Why Wisconsin’s State Fish Is Called the Fish of 10,000 Casts

by Joseph Zheng, age 10

The muskellunge is the state fish of Wisconsin. This massive fish can grow up to around three feet and weigh about 67 pounds. The scientific name for the muskellunge is Esox masquinongy. However, it has earn the nickname “the fish of 10,000 casts,” because tends to avoid fishing lures and can be unpredictable.

The usual color for the muskellunge is a blend of green to dark green, although it can also be slightly gray. The muskellunge can swim up to 30 miles per hour. Its lifespan is typically about 12 to 18 years, but it can live up to 30 years.

From mid-April to mid-May, the female muskellunge gives birth to between 20,000 to 250,000 eggs. These eggs can stick to woody debris on rocks and sandy bottoms. Parents do not protect the eggs, so most eggs get eaten. [Read More]

More Snowy Owls Spend the Winter in Wisconsin

by Dayanara Flores, age 17

Snowy owls have been seen more in Wisconsin this winter than last, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

As of January, there were 84 snowy owl sightings in Wisconsin during this past winter. the most in several years. In the winter of 2023-24, only 24 snowy owls were seen in our state, the lowest number in the last decade.

But between 2022 and 2023, 36 snowy owls were documented in the state. Surprisingly, 140 were recorded between 2021 and 2022, which is called an irruption, or a big population growth. [Read More]

Winter Finches Are Taking Their Time to Migrate

By John Agbo, age 14

This year’s Winter Finch Forecast released by the Finch Research Network suggests a slower year for migratory birds arriving in Wisconsin.

During the winter, many species of Wisconsin’s migratory songbirds fly South, searching for food sources and warmer temperatures. This season also usually attracts birds from farther north, from Canada, for the same reasons. The number of birds flying to Wisconsin and other states varies every year, depending on the availability of crops and berries. However, recent patterns indicate that many birds hesitate to make this journey. They have remained in their northern habitats longer than usual.

The migration patterns of finches help predict the migratory patterns of other birds and are connected to the availability of food sources in their homes in the boreal forests in Canada. The Finch Research Network has cone crop reporters on the ground who monitor the abundance of cone crops and berries in Canada. Based on their reports, the Winter Finch Forecast is created, analyzing bird movement patterns and preparing residents for roughly how many and which birds to expect. The forecast generally pertains to Ontario and nearby areas, including Wisconsin. [Read More]

From Toys for the Rich, to Tools of Conservation, Zoos Have a Long and Storied History

by Nae McNeail, age 13

People have kept animals in zoos for more than a thousand years. Wealthy people created the first zoos, called menageries, which were private collections to display power. Zoos later became a place for the public to learn about animals, and today serve many purposes, including preserving and studying endangered species.

The word ‘zoo’ comes from ‘zoological park,’ and the first modern zoo was built in 1793 in Paris, France. Earlier zoos resembled museums with live animals in their natural habitat. In the 18th century, during the Age of Enlightenment, public zoos grew in popularity. This was a time in European history when scientific knowledge was emphasized by many leaders. This also applied to zoology, the study of animal behavior. Zookeepers had to care for animals in order for scientists to conduct research on their behavior and anatomy. Zoos serve as educational resources that help humans see how animals live.

Not all zoos are the same. For example, Urban zoos are commonly found in larger cities. There is little room for these zoos to expand since they are in the middle of cities. The tight space means that often, animals are kept in small enclosures. Some argue that keeping animals in urban zoos is cruel due to the habitat conditions, noise, and pollution. [Read More]

Free Seeds at Madison Libraries This Winter!

By Siwoo Park, age 13

Madison libraries are once again giving out free seeds of native Wisconsin plants. Madison Public Library’s Seed Library launched its winter collection on Jan. 13, 2025.

To get a seed, all you have to do is visit a library participating in the seed library project and request one or more seed packets. Then, you can use the seeds to grow beautiful greenery. The library provides a guide for when to plant them. The winter collection includes Black-eyed Susans, Wild Bergamots, Butterfly Weeds, Rattlesnake Masters, Little Bluestems, Smooth Blue aster, Golden Alexanders, and Bottlebrush grass.

The seeds were donated by the Dane County Land & Water Resources Department (DCLWRD), with an honorable mention to Dane County Parks volunteers who collected them. Volunteers prepared more than 5,700 seed packets, but once they run out, they will not be available again until spring. [Read More]

How Barred Owls Threaten Spotted Owls

by Siheon Park, age 11

Spotted owls are threatened carnivores that inhabit forests, as well as wooded and rocky canyons across the American West Coast, the Southwestern United States, and western Mexico.

Male spotted owls weigh up to 1.5 pounds and grow up to 48 centimeters tall. Female spotted owls are slightly larger and taller than the males. They weigh up to 1.7 pounds and are about 48 centimeters tall.

Spotted owls are nocturnal hunters that eat small mammals like squirrels, birds, rats, voles, hares, and other small owls. These owls have competition with close relatives called Barred owls. Barred owls are larger and are more aggressive than spotted owls. Barred owls have begun to displace spotted owls in their natural habitats. [Read More]

Packers, Batteries Plus Partnership to Collect and Recycle Used Batteries

by Dayanara Flores Gonzalez, age 17

The Green Bay Packers recently entered a partnership with Wisconsin-based retailer Batteries Plus. Through this partnership, Batteries Plus is trying hopes to increase the recycling of batteries. They say putting batteries in the trash is easy, but recycling is a far better idea.

Wisconsin-based Batteries Plus stores will be accepting used batteries free of charge. These batteries will be deconstructed, and all the minerals will be recycled and used again. The Green Bay Packers will be encouraging fans to promote this program and donate used batteries.

This program will be paid for in part with $7 million from the Department of Energy. Wisconsin schools are eligible to participate in the battery contest to encourage battery recycling. The winners will get to visit Lambeau Field. [Read More]

St. Louis Zoo Welcomes Red Wolf Cubs, Bolstering Endangered Population

by Sofia Zapata, age 15

Red wolves have been listed as an endangered species since 1967. This species is considered the only large carnivore that is exclusively native to the U.S. It is estimated that fewer than 300 red wolves exist in captivity, with fewer than 25 remaining in the wild. In the past year, four healthy red wolf pups were born at the St. Louis Zoo.

There have been no wild sightings of red wolves in Missouri for more than 70 years. Red wolves are the world's most endangered wolf species, as their population has been drastically reduced by predator control programs and habitat degradation. In 1980, the species was declared extinct in the wild.

Red wolves are highly adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats, as long as there is sufficient food, water, and cover. They typically prey on small mammals, white-tailed deer, and raccoons. Red wolves are capable of traveling up to 20 miles a day in search of food. They have broad heads and tall, pointed ears. They stand about 26 inches tall, are approximately four feet long, and weigh between 45 and 80 pounds. Red wolves are generally wary of humans and tend to avoid human interaction. They live in close-knit packs of five to eight wolves. [Read More]

Three Wisconsin Birds that Weigh Less than an Ounce

by Joseph Zheng, age 10

Wisconsin's smallest birds can weigh less than a pencil. The Downy woodpecker, American goldfinch, and house sparrow are all examples of small birds commonly found in the state.

The Downy woodpecker is 11 to 14 centimeters long and typically weighs around 20 grams. These woodpeckers are frequently seen at bird feeders, where they enjoy suet, sunflower seeds, peanuts, and even peanut butter. Downy woodpeckers are also fond of drinking sugar water. They produce high-pitched calls that are easy to recognize, along with rapid drumming sounds created by tapping their feet during mating displays, which can sound continuous due to their speed.

The American goldfinch, another small bird, is 11 to 14 centimeters long and weighs 11 to 20 grams. These bright yellow birds are common in Wisconsin and are attracted to sunflower and Nyjer seeds. However, they are often intimidated by larger birds and prefer quiet spaces to feed. Goldfinches are strict vegetarians, feeding mainly on seeds—a rarity among birds, as most feed on insects. To ensure their young have enough to eat, goldfinches breed a month later than other birds. Their call is often described as sounding like the words "potato chip" stretched out. [Read More]

Illegal Trade Is threatening Wild Cheetah Populations

by Chelsea Zheng, age 12

Cheetahs are an endangered species that face threats from humans. These beautiful creatures are often captured and sold in the illegal pet trade market. Scientists estimate there are only about 6,600 left in the world.

Cheetahs are exported from regions in eastern Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, and the Somali regions. Normally, they live in a range of habitats that include thick shrubs, grassland, dry forests, and the Sahara Desert. Female cheetahs can live up to 14 years while males can live up to ten years.

The cheetah has five different subspecies. Their bodies are slim but muscular. Relatively to other big cat species, cheetahs have long legs and their heads are rounded and small. Along with their flexible spine, deep chest, and grippy feet, cheetahs have a long tail used for balance. [Read More]

New Study Traces Bees Back to Supercontinent Gondwana

by Jules Da Costa, age 16

Bees are vital insects for our natural world, and a recent study shows that they're much older than we previously knew and come from a supercontinent millions of years ago.

Scientists believe that long ago, the land that is now Africa and South America were joined together and formed an ancient supercontinent called Gondwana. This is apparently where bees originated, according to a 2023 study in the journal Current Biology. Researchers Silas Bessert and Eduardo Almeida claim that as the continents split up and new ones formed, the bees followed. They traveled north, spreading flowering plants.

Not only does this new understanding of the origins of bees help researchers understand the insect’s evolution, but it also helps them understand how this evolution affected plants and plant life. The diversity and spread of plants we see today is the work of those bees from long ago. By spreading plant life and collecting pollen, bees allowed plants to adapt to different geographic areas and expand outwards. [Read More]

American Martens Find Unexpected Refuge in Wisconsin's Apostle Islands

by Samuel Garduño Martínez, age 17

The American marten, a state-endangered species, has taken refuge in the Apostle Islands of northern Wisconsin. With a geographic range spanning from Alaska and Canada to the mountains of northern New Mexico, the American marten's presence is a testament to its adaptability in various ecosystems.

The American marten, colloquially known as the "pine" marten, roams as a nocturnal member of the weasel family in the dense forests of northern North America. Preferring the shelter of pine or fir trees, these small, slender mammals exhibit a unique habitat reliance, often crafting their dens inside the hollows of trees. Wisconsin, particularly the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, has become a focal point for the conservation of this species.

Since 1975, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has had various American marten reintroductions in efforts to safeguard the species. Being Wisconsin's only state-endangered mammal, martens faced the threat of extermination in the 1920s, primarily due to unregulated trapping and habitat loss. Despite the reintroduction of martens within the national forest, it’s being determined whether there has been consistency in the mammal population. [Read More]

The History of Corn From Ancient Mesoamerica to Today

by Edwin Torres, age 13

Corn is an ancient grain with an interesting history that most people have not heard about. Originating in Mesoamerica, specifically Mexico, corn is now widely enjoyed and produced across the world. However, only 40 percent of corn that is grown is consumed by people, while the remaining 60 percent is used as animal feed.

Modern corn as we know it did not exist 10,000 years ago. Instead, its ancestor was a wild grass called teosinte. Teosinte did not look like the corn we know today, but farmers in Mexico began the process of domestication around 9,000 years ago by selecting kernels to plant. While the history of corn is still debated, there is evidence showing that the domestication of corn began in the South Central region of Mexico.

For centuries, corn has been valued as an important crop for people. In fact, corn was so important that indigenous Mesoamericans even worshipped it and believed that it was a gift from the gods. One reason why corn was appreciated so much was that the crop was relatively easy to grow. This made corn an amazing crop for feeding the population and provided the leaders of indigenous civilizations with more power. [Read More]

Deadly Parasite Found in Northern Wisconsin Trout Streams

by Daniel Garduno, age 12

In northern Wisconsin streams, where salmon and trout abound, there is a new and dangerous parasite. Myxobolus cerebralis can be harmful to these fish and perhaps more. The appearance of this parasite has led to new research in Wisconsin.

Myxobolus is an organism found in trout and salmon, is a parasite that is capable of damaging the cartilage and the nervous system of the fish. This results in fish swimming aimlessly around lakes, streams, and rivers. Fish with the parasite have difficulty feeding or avoiding predators. Usually this makes them easy prey, giving them an even lower chance of survival.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends that fishermen clean their fishing gear, equipment, and boats when leaving one body of water for another. They renewed these guidelines after the parasite was discovered in northern Wisconsin’s Elton Creek. [Read More]

Why Mysterious Giants Live in the Deepest Oceans

by Samuel Garduño Martínez, age 17

When comparing spider crabs on shore to those on the ocean floor, the 13-foot-wide ocean crabs put the meager shore crabs to shame. This trend of going deeper and getting bigger seems common in nature, prompting the creation of the famous adage, “the deeper they go, the bigger they get.” There is scientific data to support this assertion, however, terrestrial animals have also been known to grow to huge sizes. Although aquatic animals aren’t the only ones who have benefited from their larger sizes, gigantism has been a key factor in the survival of creatures in the mighty oceans.

Due to the lack of food at the bottom of the ocean, resourcefulness has played a part in animals’ huge sizes. Larger organisms need less energy per mass than smaller creatures—in other words, they are more energy efficient. Kleiber’s law, a mathematical model, supports this train of thought, equating larger organisms with less food needed per unit of body mass. This is why cats, despite being one hundred times heavier than a mouse, will only need thirty times more calories. In the depths of the dark and cold sea, the ability to get the most out of sparse food, usually found as bits of debris, is essential to survival. Some animals have developed unique characteristics, such as gaping maws or extendable stomachs, to best prepare for their unanticipated mealtimes. Although Kleiber’s law has a good mathematical basis, the energy-to-mass ratio doesn’t show the entire picture. It fails to recognize other environmental and evolutionary factors contributing to such adaptations.

The exact mechanisms behind size and energy conservation are not clear, however, they could be attributed to temperature. Generally, larger creatures will retain more heat because of their size, comparatively losing less heat per unit of body mass. Additionally, their size allows them to conserve more heat from metabolism. [Read More]

Avistamiento poco común de ballena gris en aguas de Massachusetts

por Aria McClinton, edad 13

El reciente avistamiento de una ballena gris en el océano Atlántico ha alarmado a científicos. Normalmente, el avistamiento de esta especie, que rara vez se ve, es una buena señal para el océano; las ballenas grises se suelen avistar en el océano Pacífico Norte, no en el océano Atlántico. La especie apenas se ha visto en el océano Atlántico desde que su población se desvaneció en el siglo XVIII.

Afortunadamente, las ballenas grises no están en peligro de extinción. Sin embargo, en los últimos 15 años, solo se han avistado seis ballenas grises en aguas del Atlántico y el Mediterráneo. “No quería decir en voz alta qué era porque me parecía una locura”, dijo Orla O’Brien, investigadora del Centro Anderson Cabot para la Vida Oceánica. En marzo, O’Brien y su compañera de trabajo, Kate Laemmle, avistaron la ballena cerca de Nantucket.

La ballena gris está estrechamente relacionada con las seis especies diferentes de la familia Balaenopteridae. Existen dos poblaciones distintas de ballenas grises en la parte occidental de América del Norte, y la otra está en la costa de Asia, desde Corea del Sur hasta Rusia. Las ballenas grises migran dos veces a lo largo de casi 12.000 millas del océano cada año. A pesar de sus extensas migraciones, todavía no explica por qué esta ballena específica fue avistada cerca de las aguas de Massachusetts, ya que esta no es una zona típica que visitan. "Mi cerebro estaba intentando de procesar lo que estaba viendo porque este animal era algo que no debería existir en estas aguas", dijo Laemmle. [Read More]

Stewart Lake County Park is a Hidden Gem in Dane County's Driftless Area

by Samuel Garduño Martínez, age 17

Just west of Madison near the village of Mt. Horeb lies one of Dane County’s hidden gems—its first official park. Nestled in the Driftless Area, Stewart Lake County Park’s bluffs and valleys are a unique piece of Wisconsin. First and foremost, the topography is breathtakingly special. Unlike other regions in the Midwest, the Driftless Area escaped the flattening effects of thousand-year-old-glaciers.

This summer, students from Simpson Street Free Press embarked on several field trips to the Driftless Area. Our plans are to visit this still-preserved treasure and study its characteristics. On one recent trip, we learned that despite going through much change, Stewart Lake County Park is beloved by the people who use it and know it.

Stewart Lake County Park, formerly known as Lake Park, has been around since the early 20th century, but the site has beautifully carved over thousands of years. The park itself has undergone several drastic transformations since it was designated a park in 1912. [Read More]

Learn About the Mississippi, One of the Longest U.S. Rivers

by Dani Garduño, age 12

When people imagine rivers, they typically think of famous ones like the Nile or Amazon Rivers. However, one of the world's largest river systems runs right along Wisconsin: the Mississippi River. It significantly impacts the United States and its population and continues to show its benefits to humanity every day.

Flowing 2,350 miles from Lake Itasca, the Mississippi River is one of the two longest rivers in North America. Some even consider it the third-longest river system in the world. The reported length of the river may increase or decrease depending on changes in the landscape, time of year, and precipitation. The Mississippi River can reach a pretty surprising width of 11 miles. The surface speed average is 1.2 miles per hour, half as fast as an average walking speed. The river's water speed may vary depending on where you are in the United States. For example, the surface speed in New Orleans increases to three miles per hour. Even though the water speed changes in certain places, all the water leads to the Gulf of Mexico.

The Mississippi River is used for transportation and to supply water to about 50 cities, serving 10 million people. It provides 92% of the U.S. agricultural exports. 60% of American exported grain goes through the Port of South Louisiana and the Port of New Orleans; around 500 million tons of goods are shipped from the South Port of Louisiana. Other goods transported on the river include petroleum, iron, steel, rubber, wood, and coal. [Read More]

Dane County Plans Solar Project at Former Landfill in Verona

by Owen Ayite-Atayi, age 16

Dane County is looking for help developing a solar energy project located near a former landfill in Verona. The site is on land owned by the county.

Dane County plans to install a solar array in the landfill near a site that includes a nursing home, food pantry, and a food service facility.

During the 1990s, natural gas methane from the landfill was used to generate large amounts of electricity. But today, the methane is declining prompting officials to find a better way to repurpose the area. [Read More]

How Dane County Young People Can Protect Pollinator Species

by Camila Cruz, age 16

Spring and early summer is a good time to think about helping pollinator species. And you can do this right in your own backyard.

The Dane County Land and Water Resources Department is encouraging people to act to support our local pollinators. There are several steps you can take that can help. These steps include planting native plants and providing the types of habitats that pollinators need to survive and thrive.

Student reporters from Simpson Street Free Press have been studying and writing about pollinators for several years. These species are essential to our environment because about 87% of flowering plants on Planet Earth depend on pollinators. [Read More]

Tree Kangaroos Face Extinction as Habitats Disappear

by Siheon Park, age 11

Tree kangaroos are an endangered species that are often unheard of or overlooked. Their role in ecosystems and indigenous cultures and diets are threatened by habitat loss.

There are 12 species, two are found in Australia and the rest are mostly found on the island of New Guinea. Scientists estimate that there are less than 2,500 tree kangaroos in the world.

The Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program partnered with National Geographic Society to protect the tree kangaroos by using critter cams to observe how they act in the wild. Researchers captured kangaroos and placed collars that have small cameras in them. The footage records their behavior and diet. After placing the collars, researchers release them back into their natural habitat. [Read More]

Ultrasound Waves Offer a Solution for Microplastics in Water

by Ayelen Flores Ruiz, age 13

Pollution has become a big problem in today’s economy. Microplastics are a type of pollution that is really small and barely visible yet they are found in our bodies, causing a lot of damage. Microplastics can contain toxic chemicals, viruses, and bacteria.

These plastic bits are an issue for humans and wildlife. These plastics are incredibly hard to see, even smaller than a sesame seed, and no more than five millimeters wide. The bits can be found in water, air, and foods leading to their accumulation in human bodies as resources are utilized. The materials within these bits can contain toxic chemicals. Additionally, both bacteria and viruses can attach themselves to the microplastic. Wildlife can also ingest plastic bits through drinking water from rivers or the ocean.[Read More]

Wisconsin Passes $125 Million Bill to Address PFAS Contamination

by Valeria Moreno Lopez, age 17

Dangerous artificial chemicals like PFAS have polluted Wisconsin’s waters and towns for decades. The Wisconsin State Assembly recently passed a $125 million bill to control and test for PFAS contamination in groundwater across the state, yet it could also exempt polluters from liability.

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals in many industry and consumer items, including cookware and water-resistant products. These chemicals are difficult to remove from nature and do not fully decompose. They seep into groundwater and lakes, and ingesting them can lead to a weakened immune system, liver disease, and cancer.

The legislation would offer grants to local governments and private landowners, using $125 million from the state’s budget trust fund to remove PFAS in wells and water treatment plants. Under Wisconsin’s “Spills Law,” anyone who causes or owns a dangerous substance released into the environment must clean it up. However, Democrats say the PFAS bill protects polluters because, in some scenarios, taxpayers would have to clean up the mess. Furthermore, a legislative committee must approve the funding for the legislation before it can help Wisconsinites with contamination. [Read More]

Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula Faces Largest Volcanic Eruption in Decade

by Valeria Moreno Lopez, age 17

Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula has suffered its fourth and largest volcano eruption of the decade. The signs of volcanic activity started on Dec. 18, 2023, in the town of Grindavik, which is best known for its popular geothermal spa, the Blue Lagoon. Following weeks of thousands of earthquakes before the 18th, Grindavik and nearby towns evacuated more than 4,300 people.

A month before the eruption, a 2.5-mile-long fissure, which is a crack formed underneath the Earth, collected a significant amount of magma (molten rock). On Dec. 18, the opening reached the surface and nearly 150 cubic meters of lava flowed out per second for the first few hours. Heavy clouds of smoke and an orange hue covered the night sky in western Iceland. According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, the intensity of the eruption and earthquakes weakened by the next day.

Volcanic activity is not unheard of in Iceland, since it is home to 32 active volcanoes, many of them subglacial. Most eruptions take place in unpopulated areas and don’t interfere with any humans. Often, these volcanic sites become tourist attractions. Iceland is also situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where tectonic plates are frequently moving 2.5 cm apart per year. [Read More]

The Coming Invasion of Wild Pigs

by, Theodore Morrison, age 16

Pork, a delicacy enjoyed by many, is derived from the flesh of pigs. However, some wild pigs prove easier to capture than others. More specifically, a particular crossbreed between a wild Eurasian boar and a domestic swine possesses survival skills, a large body, and extreme fertility, rendering it nearly impossible to eradicate.

These pigs present a significant danger to humans and our food sources. Equipped with strong snouts, they excavate food from the ground. Unfortunately, they are not selective about their diet and are willing to destroy and consume crops, and wildlife, or even pose a threat to humans. Compounding the issue is an estimated population of 6 million of these pigs in the United States, causing concern among state and federal officials. In essence, these pigs pose a severe threat to our agricultural system and must be eradicated.

The United States has not turned a blind eye to these perilous creatures, prompting responses from Montana and Minnesota. Montana has prohibited the raising or transportation of wild pigs while endorsing preventative measures against these specific invasive animals, including surveillance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also implemented surveillance to assist in addressing the issue, while Minnesota plans to revise its management plan to better counteract the threat posed by these aggressive pigs. Moreover, many states have banned hunting these pigs due to a low success rate and the resulting increased wariness, causing the pigs to become more nocturnal and harder to track. [Read More]

Dane County Pursues Sustainability with New Solar Projects

by Yani Thoronka, age 16

In November of 2020, County Executive Joe Parisi announced new efforts regarding conservation and sustainability. The goal is for Dane County-owned facilities to run solely on renewable energy.

In his proposal, Parisi spoke of converting about 90 acres of county land near Femrite Road, in Cottage Grove into a solar farm. This new solar farm is almost double the size of a solar field at the Dane County Regional Airport that opened two years ago. The energy produced by the new solar farm will become a primary source of energy for the county and offset current electrical usage. Now, nearly two years later, with the plans officially finalized for the solar farm, construction is set to begin this spring.

In addition to the financial benefit of converting to solar energy, which officials hope will create return on investment in the future, the farm will also be good for stimulating the regional economy. Furthermore, the construction of the solar farm will create local jobs, while simultaneously paving a road forward in the fight against climate change. This standard is one the county seeks to build on, through its current Climate Action Plan Dane. [Read More]

Exploring New Zealand's Southern Alps and Glaciers

by Edwin Torres, age 12

The Southern Alps is a mountain range located on the South Island of New Zealand. The western area of this island is known for its famous glaciers. The highest point is on Mount Cook, which reaches altitudes of about 12,349 feet. It is only 20 miles from the summit westward across the coastal strip to the Pacific Ocean. Toward the east side of where the glacier is located, the land descends about 80 miles across the Canterbury Plains. The winds that blow from the Tasman Sea are loaded with moisture, and when the damp air rises against the mountains, it drops big snowballs. The three most known glaciers are the Fox, Frans Josef, and Tasman. However, they are facing threats of melting due to climate change.

The glaciers on the west side of the mountains are steep and short. On the eastern side, the glaciers are different. The higher parts are rugged and steep. The Franz Josef and Fox glaciers flow on the western side. Both are by the Westland National Park, an area containing glaciers, rivers, lakes, alpine peaks, and snow fields. Lake Matheson shows a famous view of three of its major peaks which are Tasman, La Perouse, and Cook.

The Tasman Glacier flows down Mount Cook; it is also the largest in New Zealand. The glacier creates a narrow part of ice 17 miles long that widens in places as much as two miles, moving about 20 to 25 inches per day. Although its fast speed is incredible, the glacier is starting to retreat; its lowest end is at 2,500 feet above sea level. [Read More]

The Fox River Cleanup, A Battle Against Decades of Pollution

by Sofia Zapata, age 14

The Fox River flows across central and east-central Wisconsin to Green Bay and was contaminated with cancer-causing chemicals during the mid-20th century It took almost 17 years to clean the entire river.

Between the 1950s and 1970s, the Fox River began to be contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, created by seven Fox River Valley paper companies. This chemical compound causes various harmful effects such as cancer and other health conditions. In addition, this substance can cause liver damage, acne-like skin, and neurobehavioral and immunological abnormalities in children.

There were many debates around the cleanup of the Fox River. One of them was about who would pay for the cleanup. Environmental activists said that the seven companies should pay to clean the river because they were the ones who contaminated it. However, the seven companies argued that taxpayers should also have to pay some of the cost. At the end of this argument, everyone decided that the seven paper companies responsible had to pay all the costs with a total estimated $1.3 billion. [Read More]

Railroad Merger Could Mean More Hazardous Materials Will Cross the Mississippi River

by Oliver Zink, age 13

A new railroad along the Mississippi River will carry hazardous materials through communities and important geological areas with lots of wildlife. If any spills occur, wildlife and land will be damaged. The new railroad system will increase the carloads of two railroad companies by 41,000. There are significant concerns about increasing the chances of oil and gas spills.

The Canadian Pacific and the Kansas City Southern railroad companies are merging to create the first railroad stretching from Canada to Mexico. In case of an emergency, crews are on standby to clean up any spills using 66 different collections of equipment. The companies respond to their spills with qualified contractors. However, with the increase of loads, the chance of spills has risen and the need to increase the amount of this equipment has gone up as well. In some areas, it will be a challenge to clean up spills due to possible spring floods in the area.

Nothing is preventing the construction of this railroad as it would cost money and more time. The trains will carry hazardous materials such as crude oil and petrol gas. Since the companies are common carriers, they are obligated to accept any good offer. [Read More]

Public Health Officials Issue PFAS Updates for Dane County Fisheries

by Amelia Pearson, age 13

In 2023, there was an updated per-and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) warning enforced by the Dane County Public Health due to concerns about the 2023 fishing season. PFAS are harmful human-made chemicals that are used in a vast variety of products from firefighting foams to something as simple as fast-food wrapping.

One major concern centers around PFAS found in fish. Due to this, the Department of Natural Resource (DNR) and Department of Health Services (DHS) suggest a limit on the number of certain fish people should consume, such as Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, and White Bass, which was recently added to the list. The DNR and DHS recommend only one meal including any of these four types of fish a month.

Due to the outcome of the fish sampling in 2020, the DNR heavily recommended new PFAS-based fish consumption advisories for Yahara Chain waters in Dane and Rock county. There was also a raised level of perfluoro octane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of PFAS found in various species of fish collected in lakes Monona, Kegonsa and Waubesa. [Read More]

Himalayan Glaciers Face up to 80% Ice Loss by 2100 Amid Rising Temperatures

By Valeria Moreno Lopez, age 16

Scientists believe that nearly a quarter of the world's population could face severe natural disasters by 2100 due to the alarming rate at which the Himalayan glaciers are melting. The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), based in Nepal, has warned that the glaciers could lose up to 80% of their volume if worldwide temperatures increase by 3 degrees Celsius or more.

ICIMOD, which aims to preserve life and biodiversity in mountain and downstream populations, has reported that one-third of the glaciers from Afghanistan to Myanmar could disappear even in the best-case scenario. However, over the years, the calculations have changed. If worldwide temperatures rise between 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius, less than half of the volume will be lost by 2100. Moreover, these temperatures could also exacerbate global droughts, wildfires, extreme floods, and food shortages. Professor Saleemul Huq, director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development, has stated, "In all three pillars of climate action - mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage - we are at a standstill or going the wrong way, while the consequences of inaction are accelerating by the day." [Read More]

Nature's Lumberjacks: How Beavers Shape Ecosystems and Cultivate Harmony

by Dayanis Cruz, age 13

Beavers are one of the greatest engineers in the world. They make improvements to their habitat by creating waterways, dams, and lodges. They can cause conflict with farmers by eating their crops, or by building a lodge near a pond or a river.

A lodge is a dome that is made out of sticks and mud. There are underwater entries that lead to greenery above the water levels. To make a peaceful pond, beavers create dam walls that stop the current of water systems. Many peer groups of beavers share dams for several generations, but sometimes the ponds will fill up with dirt, forcing beavers to find a new location.

Beavers feed and build new lodges in their environment at night. Through winter, they hardly ever emerge from their lodge since it keeps them warm, making it perfect for the winter season. [Read More]

The Pink Amazon River Dolphin Faces Growing Environmental Threats

by Dani Garduño, age 12

When people think of animals in the Amazon, most usually think of pythons, toucans, or parrots. Yet, fewer people know about the Amazon River dolphin. The Amazon River dolphin is a strange-looking dolphin that has an effective way of navigating the Amazon River. This dolphin is found in South America up to the basins of the Orinoco River as well as in the northern part of the Madeira River.

The Amazon River dolphin has a unique body that can grow up to two or three meters long. They usually weigh up to 140-160 kilograms. What makes these dolphins unique is their color-changing skin that varies with their age. At a young age, their skin color is usually gray. However, when they start to mature, they begin to turn pink. These dolphins' eyes are small, yet their eyesight is very bold. Their beak is very long and is designed to hunt prey. Other dolphins have uniform dorsal fins and fin sizes, but the Amazon River dolphins do not have one. Instead, they have a hump that grows larger as they age. [Read More]

Rare Black Bears from Mexico Move into South Texas

by, Aria McClinton age, 13

Scientists have found that East Mexican black bears are moving from Mexico to southern Texas. Although these creatures are at risk of extinction, there is hope because their numbers are increasing, leading to bears spreading into Texas.

The numbers of bears moving to southern Texas are unknown, but they are often found in forests around Texas and moving along the Rio Grande in Mexico. Black bears in Texas are on the endangered species list; in Mexico, they are listed as ‘in danger of extinction’. Fortunately, Mexican black bears can adapt to live in many different environments like forests or mountains.

These bears like to scavenge for their food and their behavior is driven by their excellent sense of smell. That's also why they prefer to live near humans as it’s easy to access garbage, pet food, and fruit in the wild black bears like to hunt. They often have a wide diet of pine nuts, acorns, insects, and small mammals. [Read More]

Learn How to Help Wisconsin Pollinator Populations for a Blooming Ecosystem

by Camila Cruz, age 15

Many people undervalue our pollinators, but about 87% of flowering plants worldwide depend on them. And there are many ways we can help support them, from letting lawns grow to avoiding pesticides.

Pollinators are creatures that go from plant to plant to consume nectar and pollen. In doing this, they spread the pollen, helping plants reproduce. Pollen is necessary to fertilize plants. Some of the most popular pollinators in North America are hummingbirds, moths, flower flies, beetles, bees, butterflies, and, in the southwestern parts of the U.S. and Mexico, nectar-feeding bats.

Pollinators are very important to the environment and ecosystem. In the U.S., around 150 food crops depend on pollinators. Unfortunately, the population of pollinators is decreasing because of habitat loss, pests, nutritional deficiency, insecticides, and extreme weather events. [Read More]

Non-Native Honeybee Pollination May Decrease the Quality of Seeds Over Time

by Ayelen Flores Ruiz, age 13

Recently, researchers have observed that the quality of seeds from flowers pollinated by honeybees is decreasing. Pollinators hunt for flowers in search of nectar and pollen. They are important to the food system since they help produce seeds for the ecosystem.

The seeds’ poor outcome could be because honeybees tend to spend their time going from flower to flower within the same plant, transferring pollen back into itself and resulting in inbred seeds. The study was conducted by ecologists Joshua Kohn and Dillion Travis from the University of California.

The bees that were most prominent in the study were honeybees that are not native to the United States. Non-native species are outnumbering native species of pollinators. The study showed that non-native pollinators took pollen away from native plant species and spread it to other plants of the same species, resulting in negative outcomes for native plants. [Read More]

Secrets of the Ice: Archaeologists Discover Ancient Arrowhead inside a Melting Glacier

by Camila Cruz, age 15

As glaciers begin to melt, archaeologists in Scandinavia are discovering artifacts that help them learn more about the past. Recently, researchers found a well-preserved 1,500-year-old arrow, in what they believe is an ancient hunting ground.

The archaeologists who discovered the arrow are part of “Secrets Of The Ice”, a group of scientists and glacial archaeologists in Norway who explore and pinpoint glaciers. This arrow is not just any arrow. Not only is it believed to be older than the Vikings that inhabited the land from roughly 800-1100 AD, but it is also extremely well preserved.

The arrow was found between two rocks in Norway in an area where ancient people likely hunted reindeer. The archeologists think that the arrow was lost in the snow when one of the hunters missed a shot. Archaeologists believe the arrow was frozen into a glacier, and when the glacier melted it made its way down to where it was found. The fletching which helps stabilize the arrow while it’s flying is gone, but the arrowhead is still attached to the shaft, which is a unique discovery. [Read More]

Climate Change and Habitat Loss Unveil Causes of Virus Spread from Bats to Humans

by Ayelen Flores Ruiz, age 13

Recently a disease that jumped from wild bats to humans came to be known as COVID-19. When it was first diagnosed, people suspected the disease arose from bats and as time progressed, some even falsely accused Asian populations of spreading the disease. It was unclear what started the pandemic, and because of this, scientists started attempting to discover and understand the real cause.

Scientists have learned that animals carry viruses but usually, they have no effect on other animals or humans. This is because the species has already had the virus multiple times and their immune system knows it like a best friend. The virus can then find a new species and, if its immune system does not recognize it, the virus can trigger a disease occurrence. With this information, it makes it helpful to know where, when, and why viruses pass from animals to humans. Alison Peel, a Canadian specialist in wild diseases said, “It is not easy to track when viruses jump from their wild host to a new one.” [Read More]

Dane County Land Purchase Protects 14 Acres Along Black Earth Creek

by Kaleab Afeworki, age 11

Dane County recently purchased 14.6 acres of land along Black Earth Creek to preserve its “beloved natural resources,” according to Dane County Executive Joe Parisi.

Black Earth Creek, which runs through the village of Black Earth, Wisconsin, is a trout fishery that provides residents with a place for outdoor exploration. The property not only features a wide variety of green valleys but also serves as a trail connector for the Black Earth Creek Trail.

Parisi announced the proposal in March 2023, the Dane County Board approved a purchase price of $11,000 per acre the next month. This new purchase will work to preserve cropland and trout streams, along with expanding “outdoor recreation opportunities for Dane County residents and visitors,” Parisi added. [Read More]

Children of Color in Wisconsin More Likely to Test Positive for Lead Poisoning

by Hanna Eyobed, age 18

Low-income communities and children of color in Milwaukee are disproportionately harmed by lead poisoning. Affecting one of eight children across most regions of Milwaukee, lead poisoning is a prevalent problem with serious health effects that raise concerns.

Black children are four times more likely to be victims of lead poisoning than white children, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. With lead poisoning rates of 6.5%, Black children lead in the city of Milwaukee, followed by: Native American (3.2%), Asian American & Pacific Islander (3%), Hispanic (2.6%), and white (1.6%) children. The city has the highest lead poisoning rate for children under the age of six in Wisconsin. Lead poisoning can cause damage to the brain and nervous system along with halting development and growth in children. Fortunately, the percentage of children found with hazardous amounts of lead in their blood (5mgc/dl) has gradually decreased since 2001. [Read More]

Wisconsin DNR Proposes New Rules for Endangered Species

by Lah’Nylah Bivens, age 15

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is planning to change the rules for handling endangered species.

The department is preparing to offer a blanket permit for “incidental takings” of endangered species, such as when surveys are being taken or when breeding is needed to regulate the population.

The blanket permit would allow people to handle endangered species, by removing or relocating animals and plants. These species would only be removed when they are in danger or when something is built that is disturbing the environment. [Read More]

Parasite Manipulation Alters Gray Wolf Behavior

by Amare Smith, age 19

There is a parasite called “Toxoplasma gondii” that changes the behaviors of gray wolves. The infected wolves make bolder decisions compared to the uninfected ones. Infected wolves are more prone to taking risks, and therefore there is a higher chance that they will leave their pack, create their own, or kill other wolves.

Research revealed that these parasites can negatively alter the wolves’ fate. For example, wolves leaving their pack or becoming leaders can cause them to starve or fight other wolves more frequently.

After analyzing 26 years' worth of data from 299 wolves in Yellowstone National Park, researchers have found that the cougar is also at high risk of contracting Toxoplasma gondii. It is believed that a feedback loop has been created in which infected wolves lead members of their pack into areas where cougars reside and therefore get more wolves infected. However, more research is needed to confirm this phenomenon. It was also determined that this parasite can control other smaller animals like mice. [Read More]

3M Manufacturing Company Contaminates Mississippi River with Forever Chemicals

by Alan Cruz, age 19

In the late 2000s, it became evident that "forever chemicals" were present in the bloodstream of almost every American. As a result, officials in Minnesota pressed 3M to lessen pollutants spilled into the Mississippi River at its manufacturing facility southeast of the Twin Cities. 3M is a global conglomerate that created these extremely toxic chemicals for use in their wide range of products, from adhesives to medical, building materials, and home cleaning supplies. Lawsuits spurred 3M to reduce pollution and clean up forever chemicals at locations close to another of its factories. These chemicals are known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS). In Illinois, it’s a different story. A 3M facility on the Mississippi River roughly 15 miles from the Quad Cities has been contaminating the air and water for more than a decade. Illinois state regulators have repeatedly failed to hold the company responsible. [Read More]

Endangered Bird Species Makes a Comeback in Wisconsin

by Sofia Zapata, age 13

The Kirtland’s Warbler was one of the first birds that were on the endangered species list, created in 1973. This type of bird is a gray and yellow songbird, they are a beautiful and unique species.

The habitat of the Kirtland’s Warbler is in forests and grassy areas located in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Canada. During winter, these birds migrate to sunny places like the Bahamas. When they fly back to the U.S., they stop to rest in forests and marshes.

The primary conservation concerns are habitat loss or degradation and parasitism by Brown-headed Cowbirds. Partners in Flight, a conservation organization for birds, estimates the global breeding population at 4,800 individuals and rates the species a 16 out of 20 on the Continental Concern Score, which is a rating given to endangered species. The group lists Kirtland's Warbler on the Yellow Watch List for species with restricted ranges. [Read More]

The Lifecycle of a Wolf Pup

by Joseph Zheng, age 9

In spring, females wolves give birth to newborn pups in dens after nine weeks of pregnancy.

One adult wolf fits perfectly into a single den, which is dug ten feet long prior to pregnancy. During the first month after the pups are born, the mother takes full responsibility for the wolf pack.

The puppies remain in their dens for the first few weeks to stay warm and protected as they are initially deaf. Each pup weighs about one pound. Their mother will start to breastfeed them until they are old enough to eat meat. After their first month, the responsibility of survival shifts from solely the mother to the entire pack. This caretaking method helps form a bond between the newest members and the rest of the pack. [Read More]

Invasive Carp Enter the Wisconsin River

by Sofia Zapata, age 13

An invasive carp species that originates from Europe and Asia has been affecting many rivers in the United States, including our own Wisconsin River. If scientists don't resolve this issue or find ways to control the populations, this could be very dangerous for the existing 98 different species that reside in the Wisconsin River.

For over 100 years, the Asian carp has invaded the United States. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says that the carp are traveling from Asia to the Mississippi River and followed by the Wisconsin River. This carp can be very dangerous for our rivers because they are really aggressive hunters, which initiates competition for other species.

Asian carp may live up to 20 years and as they grow, they mature between four to eight years in their life. They are an interesting species because of their jumping ability, however this can be dangerous to boaters. Specifically, adult Asian carp weighing 40-60 pounds can jump up to 10 feet above the water’s surface, unlike any other common species. [Read More]

Scientists Say Invasive Species of Crayfish Might Leave Wisconsin on its Own

by Lah’Nylah Bivens, age 15

The rusty crayfish appeared in Wisconsin 50 years ago. Since this crayfish is not native to Wisconsin it is considered an invasive species. The rusty crayfish pushed native crayfish out of their dens and ate the native aquatic plants, causing harm to the lakes. This harmed the local spawning grounds, leaving fish unprotected.

Rusty crayfish may have found their way to Wisconsin by traveling in buckets to be used as bait. These crayfish are native to Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and the streams of the Ohio River Basin states. They also can be found in New Mexico, Northeastern states, areas in Ontario, Canada, and states surrounding Wisconsin.

Crayfish reproduce at alarming rates due to the female rusty crayfish laying around 80 to 575 eggs at a time. It takes about three to six weeks, depending on the temperature of the water, for the eggs to hatch. Scientists have studied these crayfish over the years and have found that the population can die off naturally. Due to destroying their own habitats and fungal diseases, recent studies have shown that the rusty crayfish population has dropped to zero. [Read More]