Photo by Randy M. Cauthron [Order this photo]

Over 200 sixth graders from Spencer, Clay Central-Everly and South Clay schools took part in Wednesday's "Outdoor Classroom" -- a program that has been presented to the Clay County students for over two decades, coordinated by the Clay County Soil & Water Conservation District. With volunteer educational specialists involved, the students get a unique perspective of the issues that effect the regions eco system and environment at large. During the fire safety portion of the program, students are given an opportunity to feel the punch of the fire hose when it's at work. (Right) Rebecca Frederick, from Lincoln Elementary in Spencer got a little assistance with the spray. During the day long stay at Kindlespire Park's Little Sioux Access area, the students were introduced to: Fishing, forest ecology, bees, birds, a nature hike, water quality, soils and natural resources and bats.