CHEYENNE — Hundreds of trout found homes in Wyoming waters thanks to students and teachers participating in a conservation education program. Trout in the Classroom is a partnership between the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Trout Unlimited where students and teachers raise rainbow trout in their classrooms over the course of a semester.

This year, 70 schools throughout the state were selected to participate with more than 5,500 student caretakers. Classrooms received trout eggs from Game and Fish in January and raised them throughout the semester while learning concepts of ecology, population biology, water quality, fish anatomy and conservation. 

“I think the program is fantastic overall and our kids learned a lot and had a great time,” Niobrara County school teacher Lisa Pzinski said. “It was nice for them to be able to see the life cycle up close. It was a great engagement and learning activity for our kids and they appreciated the reward of getting to take a field trip during the school day to release the trout.”

Once the trout reached the fingerling stage, participants released their fish into a designated pond under the supervision of Game and Fish personnel. Releases took place in May within 24 designated community fisheries across the state. 

Bringing fish directly into classrooms helps students develop a new understanding and appreciation for their local fisheries and aquatic life cycles, and the program reinforces science curriculum by providing hands-on experience. Teachers have access to customizable lesson plans that guide students through the life cycle of a trout and can tailor the program to meet their curriculum needs. Trout in the Classroom is an opportunity to engage students in hands-on STEM activities, exposing them to the natural environment and conservation careers. 

This program is ideal for students in third-12th grade and is open to any classroom in Wyoming. Schools must apply during the fall semester to be part of the program. Teachers who are interested in learning more about the program can complete the  TIC interest form.

— WGFD —