Connecting students to waterways with RiverLink’s RiverRATS program

Press release from RiverLink:

RiverLink’s RiverRATS (River Research and Appreciation Through Science) environmental education program is gearing up for another action-packed school year. All lessons are provided free of charge, thanks to generous grants from the Pigeon River Fund and Walnut Cove Members Association. The grants also funded the purchase of some exciting new education tools that include an interactive stream table, dissecting microscopes, and a backpack electrofisher. In the 2018-2019 school year these tools were utilized to provide 3,500 students in five counties the opportunity to learn about stream health and water quality in an interactive, hands-on way.

The main focus of the RiverRATS program is to engage students with their local waterways, with the goal of increasing understanding and appreciation of aquatic ecosystems. “It’s different from just talking about it in the classroom, it made the learning real” said Emmaly Rogalski, 5th grade teacher at Rainbow Community School in West Asheville. In 2018 Emmaly’s class participated in five different lessons offered through the RiverRATS education program. They also had the opportunity to do two stream cleanups through RiverLink’s volunteer program. This was a first for many of the students and they came away feeling empowered by their experience. “When you’re 10 or 11 [years old] there’s not a lot you can do and they know there are big problems in the world but they can feel helpless; this helps to give them…power,” Emmaly said.

RiverLink focuses on building relationships with schools and organizations in the area. Over the years students at the French Broad River Academy in Woodfin have participated in a number of RiverLink programs including invasive species removal, litter clean-up events and the Art and Poetry Contest. “During my 8 years of working at French Broad River Academy for Boys, I have appreciated Riverlink’s role in enhancing educational opportunities for our students,” said Jason Martin, Academic Director, Language Arts Teacher and Head of Music at French Broad River Academy. He goes on to say, “I’m thankful for the partnership we have enjoyed with Riverlink… and I look forward to continuing to work together to create future generations of river protectors throughout our communities.”

RiverLink’s Environmental Education program works to inspire and educate the next generation of river stewards while building awareness and a sense of connection to the local waterways. The program utilizes a multi-faceted approach that includes the RiverRATS Education Program, French Broad River Camp, and an annual Arts & Poetry Contest. These programs provide youth a fun and engaging opportunity to learn about the physical characteristics, biological communities, and chemical makeup of local streams, as well as express their creativity in support of the River and surrounding watershed.

Since 1987 RiverLink has worked with local citizens, community leaders and businesses to address the environmental and economic health of the French Broad River Basin. The organization is a key player in revitalizing the riverfront district, providing recreational and
educational amenities for citizens and visitors, and promoting conservation and environmental education initiatives.

For more information on Environmental Education Programs, including scheduling lessons, contact: Justin Young, Program Manager education@riverlink.org (828) 252.8474 ext 12. For general information about RiverLink, including upcoming events, projects, and ways to give visit www.riverlink.org.