Go Up A Creek Without A Paddle is a program designed to “wet the appetite” of students by connecting them with the world around creeks. This is a hands-on, interactive approach to exploring both the natural and man-made features of streams.
Day 1: Students will examine the “lay of the land” and how that contributes to rain water flowing into the creeks. They will measure the amount of water that covers a square yard when 1 inch of rain falls. They will also discover how moving water can push pollutants into creeks and streams.
Day 2: Students will determine what kind of vegetation is found in and around a city creek. Students will learn to identify trees, shrubs, and the ever popular, poison ivy! They will “dig” into the ways that plants and soil can help filter pollution out of rain water before it reaches the creek. They will also see first-hand the benefits rain gardens have on water quality.
Day 3: Students will investigate water quality by testing the creek for various pollutants. They will learn the safety procedures and protocols used by scientists worldwide as they conduct water monitoring tests and collect data. Students will also determine the rate of water flow, why it is important, and what causes water flow to change.
Day 4: Students will focus on wildlife found along city creeks. Students will use kick nets to seine the creek for macroinvertebrates and use microscopes to identify what they have found. Students will also use binoculars to observe birds and squirrels and will look for direct and indirect signs of other types of wildlife.
Day 5: Students will explore how human activities can impact water quality. They will conduct a litter survey along the creek and will calculate water quality based on the data collected on Day 3. Students will conclude the program by designing and creating a poster, skit, song, or video about the importance of keeping our creeks clean.
Who Is the Blue River Watershed Association?
BRWA is a non-profit, 501c3, grassroots organization established by a middle school science teacher in 1996. Our mission is to engage and educate Kansas City citizens about water quality in the Blue River Watershed, to provide environmental stewardship opportunities, and to form strategic water quality partnerships. BRWA staff includes award winning, certified teachers with more than 50 years of combined classroom experience.
