Outdoor Classroom

In April, the Warren County Chapter (Virginia) hosted an educational field trip for 70 fifth grade students from Rappahannock County Elementary School. The students were divided into groups to rotate through the planned activities.

Each group got their feet wet with a macroinvertebrate stream survey using the League’s Save Our Streams water monitoring model. During the survey, students identified aquatic creatures that serve as indicator species for water quality. They found all the right macroinvertebrates to prove the water in Gooney Creek is in great shape.

Students went hiking on the interpretive trail that surrounds the Warren County Chapter property. On the hike, students learned about the area’s history and its natural resources. Students were assigned scavenger hunt questions that could be answered based on the many informative postings along the trail. Chapter volunteers also set up a soil study station, where students learned what healthy soil is, how it is formed, and the importance of soil conservation.

Finally, each group enjoyed some simple cane-pole fishing in a beautiful pond. Many fish were landed and many more got away, but a great time was had by everyone.

Many thanks to the Warren County Chapter members who volunteered to chaperone the students throughout the day. Thanks also to the grounds crew for the tireless work they do in maintaining the chapter’s property and facilities.

– Chuck Way, Warren County Chapter Save Our Streams Chairperson