Prof. Trevor Pitcher offers members of the UNI-COM: Lifelong Learning Class an opportunity for hands-on learning at UWindsor’s Freshwater Restoration Ecology Centre (FREC) in LaSalle. [Photo courtesy of George Plantus]
A group of seniors passionate about lifelong education cast their curiosity into the waters of fish ecology during a recent visit to the University of Windsor’s Freshwater Restoration Ecology Centre (FREC) in LaSalle.
The visitors were members of the University-Community (UNI-COM): Lifelong Learning Class, a voluntary organization of adults aged 50 and older who, with support from the University and the community, promote teaching, learning, mentoring, advocacy and research.
Led by FREC director Trevor Pitcher, the tour offered a deep dive into the science behind freshwater restoration, highlighting how research and education are helping protect species like Chinook Salmon, Redside Dace and Lake Sturgeon.
A group of seniors learn best practices for restoration ecology at UWindsor’s Freshwater Restoration Ecology Centre (FREC) in LaSalle. [Photo courtesy of George Plantus]
“Prof. Pitcher described many factors that affect the quality of our rivers and lakes, and what programs are being undertaken to provide a better environment for fish,” said George Plantus, UNI-COM Lifelong Learning coordinator.
“We learned about species like Lake Sturgeon, which can grow to almost two metres in length and live up to 118 years.”
Researchers and students at FREC develop best practices for restoration ecology relevant to the Detroit River and Great Lakes.
The centre regularly hosts school groups and community organizations like UNI-COM.