UWM Freshwater Sciences grad student makes a splash in the world of aquatic education

Pierce VanValkenburg: Making a Splash in Aquatic Education

Pierce VanValkenburg, a graduate student at UW-Milwaukee’s School of Freshwater Sciences, has dedicated their life to water conservation and education. Growing up on the St. Croix River, VanValkenburg developed a deep connection to freshwater ecosystems. Their passion for caring for these ecosystems led them to become Wisconsin’s first aquarium performer, known as Mermaid Echo.

Deepening knowledge as Freshwater student

VanValkenburg’s journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in journalism and communications from UW-Madison. However, their desire to educate children about freshwater systems and conservation motivated them to pursue a graduate degree in Freshwater Sciences at UW-Milwaukee. VanValkenburg’s goal was to deepen their knowledge and enhance their ability to teach children about the importance of protecting our water resources.

As Mermaid Echo, VanValkenburg has performed across the Midwest and even internationally in California, Mexico, and Ireland. They started by dressing as a mermaid for kids’ birthday parties in 2016, using their performances as a platform to communicate scientific knowledge about aquatic ecosystems and environmentalism.

Discovering mermaiding

In 2012, VanValkenburg discovered monofin swimming as a form of physical therapy after a leg injury. This led them to the mermaiding community, a group of individuals dedicated to protecting water systems and creating a touch of magic in people’s lives. VanValkenburg’s passion for mermaiding inspired them to start the Midwest’s first mermaid school, where students learn about water safety while swimming with mermaid tails.

Popular at Discovery World

One of Mermaid Echo’s most significant collaborations is with Milwaukee’s Discovery World. Shannon Atwood, the Director of Public Experiences at Discovery World, was intrigued by VanValkenburg’s dedication to environmental science and their unique approach to educating children. Mermaid Echo has been regularly performing at Discovery World since 2021.

VanValkenburg writes scripts for each performance in collaboration with Discovery coordinators. These shows cover various topics related to freshwater ecosystems, such as the history and limnology of Lake Michigan, sturgeon, and microplastics. During the performances, Mermaid Echo interacts with children through the glass, teaching them about the show’s topic and playing trivia games.

Performances are popular

Mermaid Echo’s performances at Discovery World are incredibly popular among children. People often arrive at the aquarium an hour before the show starts, eager to witness the visual spectacle. VanValkenburg’s ability to engage and inspire children to protect freshwater ecosystems has had a lasting impact on many families.

VanValkenburg’s work as Mermaid Echo has received positive feedback from parents who have witnessed their children adopting sustainable habits, such as using reusable bags to reduce single-use waste. These experiences reaffirm VanValkenburg’s commitment to making a difference and educating future generations about the importance of water conservation.

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Written by Lauren Breunig

Link to original story: https://uwm.edu/news/uwm-freshwater-sciences-grad-student-makes-a-splash-in-the-world-of-aquatic-education/

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article:

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
• SDG 14: Life Below Water
• SDG 15: Life on Land

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Based on the Article’s Content:

• SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
• SDG 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
• SDG 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article:

• Water quality improvement: The article highlights the importance of caring for freshwater ecosystems and educating children about freshwater systems and conservation.
• Marine pollution reduction: The article mentions Mermaid Echo’s role in teaching young people about aquatic ecosystems and environmentalism, which can contribute to reducing marine pollution.
• Conservation and restoration of freshwater ecosystems: The article discusses Mermaid Echo’s performances at Discovery World, where they educate children about the history and limnology of Lake Michigan and other topics related to freshwater ecosystems.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs	Targets	Indicators
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation	Target 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.	Water quality improvement through freshwater education and conservation efforts.
SDG 14: Life Below Water	Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.	Reduction of marine pollution through education on aquatic ecosystems and environmentalism.
SDG 15: Life on Land	Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.	Conservation and restoration of freshwater ecosystems through educational performances and awareness campaigns.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: wisconsin.edu

 

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