OTTAWA — Earth Day came a day early to Franklin County. Students from four middle schools in the county learned about soil, water and wildlife at several hands-on stations at the fairgrounds in Ottawa today. Central Heights student Tabby Wicks of Princeton said she learned about how pollution gets into soil and the importance of protecting the Earth. Osawatomie High School senior Sara Schwalm showed some of her school’s collections of snakes and reptiles at the Earth Festival. She said the students were surprised to found out that the snakes are smooth and cool to the touch. Once they get over their initial fears, students are fascinated by snakes and often ask if they bite – they don’t, she said.
Wednesday, April 21, 4 p.m.
