A lesson plan about Clam Gardens, in general, would be closely related to environmental sciences/sustainability. I would like to explore how Clam Gardens could be incorporated into a chemistry lesson plan.

Clam Gardens increase the pH of the intertidal zone.

What does this mean?

With anthropogenic climate change, the ocean is becoming more acidic as the ocean absorbs the increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. With this increased acidification, it is more difficult for organisms to thrive. Clam Gardens increase the pH of the intertidal zone which means the acidity is being decreased.

This knowledge about Clam Gardens could be vital in the fight to maintain food security in the face of climate change.

Concepts and activities that could be covered

1. Chemistry experiment on pH and [H3O+] in walled beaches vs non-walled beaches.

2. Questions to consider: Why would there be a difference in pH? Which benefits the clams more, and why? (Hint: Ocean Acidification)

3. The intertidal soil at different beaches could be tested with litmus paper in order to determine the different pHs.

4. Additionally, a sediment test can be done in order to determine the concentration of calcium. Specific calcium concentrations in intertidal sediment are an indicator of healthy clamshells. (Looking into polyatomic ions – Calcium Carbonate)

Something To Note: It is essential to get permission from the local Nation to go to the Clam Gardens. This will require the development of relationships within the Indigenous community. Perhaps an Elder may be willing to accompany the class and give Traditional Ecological Knowledge (providing a gift and honorarium in return)