marine mammal

By Martha Berthelsen

Thanks to the government shutdown on October 2nd Bay Area gems like Alcatraz are closed and Rosie the Riveter National Historic Park are empty. But this isn’t the first time a local treasure has been left deserted. Crissy Field was once an abandoned airfield, but in 2001 it was revitalized and restored by the hard work of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy and many volunteers. After a decade long effort, there are now 20 acres of beaches, tidal marsh, and trails where asphalt used to be, making Crissy Field a popular public space for everyone to enjoy. The natural beauty of Crissy Field is enhanced by the historic buildings that are a reminder of the unique narrative of the San Francisco Bay. On the edge of the Bay in Crissy Field is the historic Coast Guard Building, which the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary calls home. They also have a beautiful pier classroom that has breathtaking views of the Golden Gate, and is the oldest continuously recording tide monitoring station. This gorgeous site is the location for our annual Watershed Teaching Tools workshop, and we are so excited to host this workshop in such a beautiful setting.

Few issues are more important than raising the next generation to become responsible, caring adults. The Watershed Project’s educator workshops equip teachers, after school care providers, and informal educators with the tools and resources to stimulate student interest in environmental issues.

“A workshop like this is a helpful reminder and motivator to include watershed and anti-pollution info in our busy teaching schedules.” (Watershed Teaching Tools participant, 2012)

We emphasize hands on activities over pencil and paper, and provide lesson plans plus background information teachers can use in the classroom or outside. Simple models and maps lead to understanding how water connects our urban landscapes to the bay and ocean. Bugs, plants, shoreline creatures, and marine mammals will spark students’ curiosity and imagination, and directed activities help them understand how all living things are connected.

“All activities will be useful because they were tactile and visual.” (Watershed Teaching Tools participant, 2010)

Lessons incorporate principles from biology, physical science, and social science. We use math, drama, art and even physical education to help students understand habitats, ecosystems, and how to prevent pollution.

“So much great curriculum . . . can”t wait to implement at home and school.” (Watershed Teaching Tools participant, 2008)

We all need to better understand the impacts of humans— how pollutants from urban runoff get into the water, and what we can each do to protect our watersheds and water quality. Our workshop leaders share not just their knowledge but also their passion, and inspire teachers to lead their students towards appreciation and stewardship of creeks, our bay, and ocean.

“You made the material very engaging and accessible!” (Watershed Teaching Tools participant, 2011)

“One of the best workshops I’ve ever attended.” (Watershed Teaching Tools participant, 2011)

We couldn’t deliver great programs like our workshop without the help from friends like you. Consider making a gift to keep these workshops and our other top-notch environmental programs running.

For more information about this upcoming workshop please contact Pia, or you can register for the workshop here.