Lower James River Education Program
Join us at the Colonial National Historical Park
Our Lower James River Education Program is based at the Colonial National Historical Park administered by the National Park Service. The National Park is home to Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown Battlefield, as well as natural resources of forests, wetlands, shorelines, and streams. James River Association staff lead paddle program take place at the James City County Marina, which is adjacent to the National Park.
Our education programs are designed to further a classroom’s discipline of study through meaningful watershed educational experiences and are open to all 4th-12th grade classrooms in the James River watershed.
Education Programs
Ecology Day Program
On the water around Colonial National Historical Park
Watershed Classrooms
Our educators will bring lesson plans into your classroom
Powhatan Creek Exploration
1-2 hour paddle on Powhatan Creek, a tributary of the James
Stewardship Program
Paint Out Pollution by creating local stormdrain art
Your trip could include:
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Canoeing: Discover the plants and animals of the James River! After a paddling safety demonstration, students will depart from the James City County Marina and paddle in scenic Powhatan Creek. We will learn about the importance and function of wetland ecosystems.
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Wetlands and Watersheds: Investigate the health of the James River with abiotic water quality testing. Students will also conduct a water filtration experiment by designing a “wetland in a bottle” that mimics wetland filtration processes.
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Seining: Using a seine net, students will discover aquatic life in the James River. This lesson takes place at the Glasshouse Beach, which is located 1 mile from JRA’s facility.
- Invasive Species Investigation: Learn about the species living in the James River Watershed and how invasive species can impact an ecosystem.
Ecology Day Trip |
Powhatan Creek Exploration |
Stewardship Programs |
Watershed Classrooms |
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No. of students |
<25 | 26-50 | <25 | 34 | 34 |
Cost | $750 | $1,000 | $500 | $400 | $150 |
Duration of programming |
4-5 hours | 4-5 hours | 1-2 hours | 4-5 hours | 45 min |
Description | Wetland paddle, land-based program | Wetland paddle, land-based program | Wetland paddle and water quality on Powhatan Creek | Paint Out Pollution at a local stormdrain | In-classroom visit from a JRA educator |
If you are committed to providing students with quality field-based learning experiences but are limited by funds, please contact JRA for more information about need-based scholarships for appropriate individuals and schools.
Meet the Lower James River Education Staff
Katie Ferrell
Lower James Education Manager
Email: kferrell@thejamesriver.org
Phone: 757.703.0672
James Abbott
Lower James Environmental Educator
Email: jabbott@thejamesriver.org