In a land far away, full of life and wonder,
Lived many creatures, both big and small, and younger.

Juvenile fish in a tributary stream,
Swam with the current, like a beautiful dream.

The water flowed fast, but with it came power,
Hydroelectric turbines spun by the hour.

The water was used to irrigate fields,
Where crops would grow and many meals be sealed.

But as the fish swam, they faced a great foe,
Predator birds that swooped down very low.

The fish had to migrate, a perilous quest,
To reach the reservoir where they could rest.

Some species had gone extinct, it was said,
But hatcheries raised more fish, from egg to bed.

And so the cycle continued on and on,
The fish spawn, then grow, and soon they are gone.

But the land was alive, full of diversity,
Where creatures of all kinds lived in harmony.

So remember, dear children, to cherish with care,
The world that surrounds us, and all that we share.

Reflections

Here are a few questions to ask kids to think about the story:

1. What challenges did the juvenile fish face during its journey through the tributary stream?
2. How did hydroelectric power affect the fish's habitat?
3. Why did the fish need to migrate to a reservoir?
4. What is a hatchery and how does it help endangered species?
5. Why is it important for us to cherish and protect our environment and the species that live in it?