From School Library Journal
Grade 8 Up. A guide to the study of wetland habitats. Integrated into the 24 investigations and 11 projects is basic information about the various types of wetlands and common wildlife and plants found in and near them. Investigations range from the simple, such as capturing and raising tadpoles, to the complex, e.g., measuring the amount of siltation along a delta shoreline after several rains. Standard observational techniques and the use of a field journal are described. Materials and tools to be used for observation, sample taking, and experimentation are common or easily made from objects around the home. Some knowledge of and experience with tools and crafts are assumed. Warnings such as "Be careful not to cut yourself" appear in boldface, yet no mention is made of potential dangers in swamps or bogs, or in exploring alone. Students are also encouraged to contact an agricultural-extension agent or conservation officer for information and to ask permission of a wetland's owner to conduct experiments, plant native vegetation, and harvest edible plants. Simple instructions are provided to construct six pieces of equipment including a "bottom viewer" and "sampling pans." The directions for making a collecting sweep net are somewhat unclear. Black-and-white photographs, sketchy line drawings, a short bibliography, filmography with source addresses, and a list of Internet sites supplement the text. April Pulley Sayre's Wetland (21st Century, 1996) presents good basic explanations of wetland types, vegetation, and animal life with color photographs.?Ann G. Brouse, Big Flats Branch Library, NYCopyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
Gr. 7^-10. This informative book presents aspects of wetland ecology and encourages young people to learn about the subject firsthand. Throughout the book, the primary text explains the basics, and well-conceived projects and investigations offer interested students ways to explore what's happening in nearby wetlands. Each chapter focuses on a facet of the subject, such as soil and water, wetland animals, wetland plants, networks of plant and animal interactions, human impact upon the wetlands, and preservation. The line drawings and diagrams are clear and helpful; however, the black-and-white photographs have a lackluster appearance. Appendixes include a section explaining tools and equipment, a glossary, and lists of books, films, and Web sites. From the Exploring Ecosystems series, a serviceable guide. Carolyn Phelan

Card catalog description
Provides instructions for projects and activities that explore the five major types of wetlands and demonstrate why they are valuable.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

This new series will feature books that foster an appreciation for the diversity of habitats on Earth and the flora and fauna that they support. Activities, projects, and investigations reinforce the basic biological, ecological, and geological principles discussed. The appendix of each book has instructions for building simple equipment that will allow students to collect and observe living organisms.

Not long ago, wetlands were seen as dank, useless places where mosquitoes breed. Some were drained; others were used as dumping grounds. Today, we know thatwetlands areas provide homes to a tremendous variety of wildlife. They provide us with food and water, act as flood barriers and prevent erosion. As readers carry out the projects and activities in this book, they too will come to appreciate the value of wetland ecosystems.

FROM THE CRITICS

School Library Journal