Michigan International Speedway, Adrian College Pair Up On Science Work

BROOKLYN (WWJ/AP) - The Michigan International Speedway and Adrian College have developed plans for a science center and science-related field trips at the NASCAR racetrack.

Officials announced earlier this week that students will learn about the area's ecosystem as part of the "Track and Explore" program. The partnership has provided Adrian College biology students with opportunities to research and study animal and plant life on 900 acres of the 1,400-acre Brooklyn track.

There's also a chance to learn about the science behind the track.

The college students have found and photographed biological samples and developed displays for the MIS offices. Now, in preparation for the next phase of the project, the students have developed a field guide and self-guided tour book for visitors at the track, located about 60 miles southwest of Detroit.

"Here in the beautiful Irish Hills, the outdoors means a great deal to all of us at MIS so we hope these experiences help open kids to take active roles in addressing the complex environmental challenges facing our world," MIS President Roger Curtis said in a release.

Track and Explore activities will take place at the speedway's family campground and the infield media center. Programs that began this week will conclude Nov. 1, and will start again in full force in Spring 2013.

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