Virtual Field Trips
The River Center is offering virtual field trip programs this Fall! On select Wednesdays our River Center educators are providing specific topics for our virtual experiences.
Our mission is to foster a sense of environmental stewardship for the Loxahatchee River’s diverse watershed with quality programs, educational exhibits, and meaningful events.
Program Times: 10 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (All Groups)
September
Water Properties Lab
Date: Sept. 23
Join our interactive lab that covers the properties of water including density, buoyancy, surface tension, and the phases of water comparing two different water types. We will make connections to salt, fresh, and brackish water in their experiments and the ecosystems in the Loxahatchee River watershed.
Recommended: Grades 3-5
Video now available!
October
Sea Urchin Lab
Date: Oct. 7
We will provide an introduction into the scientific method and observation driven experiments using live animals. We will take an expedition into the River Center’s touch tank to learn about all the Echinoderms of the Loxahatchee River (urchins, sea stars, and sea cucumbers). Students will participate in an activity to learn how sea urchins survive in their environment; compare them to other aquatic species, and the adaptations necessary for their survival.
Recommended: Grades K-2
Reptiles of the Loxahatchee
Date: Oct. 21
Reptiles are considered eco-enrichers and play a significant role in the Loxahatchee River ecosystem. Reptiles such as alligators, freshwater turtles, lizards, and snakes have unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in our swamps and marshes. Students will get up close with some of the resident reptiles, learn about their characteristics and adaptations, and discover what makes them unique.
Recommended: Grades 1-4
November
Fish Morphology
Date: Nov. 4
This fun and unique program provides a detailed look into the differences between fish species and adaptations found throughout nature. Students will get up close to the River Center’s aquariums learning about different fish species, habitats, and characteristics. We will create their own fish using different art media to create different adaptations based on their ecosystems and specific habitats.
Recommended: Grades K-2
Mangrove Adaptations
Date: Nov. 18
Students will identify mangrove species, adaptations, and the vital role they play in Florida’s ecosystem. They will understand the energy flow throughout the estuary including the mangrove producers, juvenile fish nurseries, predatory food supply, and decomposers. Students will see a demonstration relating to mangrove estuaries, ocean energy, and human influences.
Recommended: Grades 3-5 (adaptable for ESE 6-8)
December
Squid Dissection
Date: Dec. 2
Using proper dissection tools and techniques, River Center educators will be performing a scientific dissection of a squid. Students will learn the classification of squid, their anatomy, characteristics, and adaptations.
Recommended: Grade 5 (adaptable for 6-8)
Oyster Reef Ecology Lab
Date: Dec. 16
This activity includes a habitat assessment using samples taken directly from the Loxahatchee River (oyster restoration bags). Macro and Micro organisms are discovered, identified, and classified using microscopes. Students are getting a firsthand look at the primary consumers of the food web in relation to fish nursery food supplies.
Recommended: Grades 3-5 (adaptable for 6-8)
For questions please contact the River Center at 561-743-7123 or Education@lrecd.org