A group of sixth graders from Corvallis’ Franklin K-8 School would spend the next several hours conducting science experiments at different stations along the Alsea River and the forested path.

Sixth grader Hazel uses a net to catch small critters at Clemens Park in Alsea, Ore., on Nov. 7, 2024. The students are testing the river's health for spawning salmon. Natalie Pate / OPB The ...