The Big Sky Ophir School sixth and seventh graders impressed a group of Montana State University scientists and faculty with the results of their year-long wildlife research project. The presentation was a summary of their research conclusions based on the data they collected on the local elk population, cow/calf ratios, habitat condition and weather data. This was the second year the students collected and presented their research conclusions using a PowerPoint presentation created solely by the students.
Ophir School students worked with the Big Sky Institute, Ophir teachers and scientists from MSU and Mt Fish Wildlife and Parks investigating how the local elk population changes over time. The student's research focuses on the Gallatin elk herd, consisting of elk populations in Porcupine, Taylor Fork, and around the Park boundary in Daly and Tepee Creek. Currently, elk in these populations generally die from old-age or hunting. Wolves and human activity are both increasing in this area, and may eventually have an impact on this herd. By continuing the research for several years, the student-collected elk data may show if the population's size is changing, and may provide valuable information for the management of the population.
Students collect most of their data on elk found on the foothills of the Porcupine drainage. These elk are visible from the Ophir School library. Three to five times a week, students use spotting scopes to census the visible elk, recording the number of cows, calves, and bulls. The students also sample more distant populations by snow shoeing into the backcountry once a month which allows them to count elk between Ophir School and the Northwest corner of Yellowstone Park.
The Big Sky Institute combines up-to-date research with innovative hands-on learning for 'K-Gray' learners, with a goal of a more scientifically literate, aware and articulate citizenry. Former BSI Program Coordinator, Robin Patten worked with the Ophir school students who learn science while collecting real-life data and information to be used by local biologists.
