Searching through pond muck for tiny macroinvertebrates at Sibly Pond.

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area strives to help educate people of all ages to the park and its resources. A ranger-led field study is a great way for your students to learn about the Chattahoochee River and other associated topics. All field studies listed below are curriculum-based and free of charge to educational group. We are able to accommodate two classes per day for a field study.

We also provide in-class ranger-led programs for groups unable to visit the park. Visit our Guest Speakers page to learn more about these programs.

For more information or to register for a field study, please contact the park at 678-538-1200.

Students will participate in a hands-on field study investigation of macro-organisms found in pond life to determine the health of this ecosystem. Younger students will focus on discovery and identification of specimens; older students will participate in water quality testing (ie. temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen).

Georgia Performance Standards: SKL1, SKL2, S1L1, D3L1, S3L2, S4L1, and S4L2

Aquatic Microinvertebrate Studies
High School
One hour minimum duration

Using sampling and field study techniques, students will collect, identify, and record findings of microorganisms and algae specimens to determine the health of an aquatic community of the Chattahoochee River watershed. Microscopes, field guides, and identification keys will be used to assist students in their discoveries. Energy flow and cycling charts will be developed to interpret findings.

Georgia Performance Standards: SCSh1, SCSh2, SCSh3, and SB4

Forest Watershed Walk
Kindergarten, First, Third, and Fourth Grades
One hour duration

Following a stream to its confluence, students will participate in a dynamic field investigation of wildlife habitat, watershed processes, and forest functions. Using multiple observations, students will learn about their impacts on the natural verses human created water cycle.

Georgia Performance Standards: SKL1, SKL2, S1L1, D3L1, S3L2, S4L1, and S4L2

Leave No Trace
Third Grade and High School
45 minute duration

A park ranger will meet with students at a park unit to discuss the importance of environmental stewardship. The park ranger will provide a presentation about how people of all ages can help protect the natural environment and enjoy scenic and wild places while participating in physical activity and engaging with their communities. This program will include an activity from the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.

Georgia Performance Standards: S3L2, SEV5, PEHS.5, and PEHS.6 

The Mighty Chattahoochee:
A Study of Water Power
Eighth Grade
One hour duration

Students will learn more about energy, force and motion as they investigate water power and its role in history. Through this hands-on program, students will make models using everyday items to simulate how early water mill operations harnessed the kinetic energy of water power along the Chattahoochee River.

Georgia Performance Standards: S8P2 and S8P3

The National Park Service!
What does it mean to you?
High School
One hour duration

This program is designed to help students understand the National Park Service - who we are, what we do, and why. Students will demonstrate their knowledge by becoming land managers, creating their own national park -outside on school grounds, then share their work with their peers through an oral presentation.

Georgia Performance Standards: ELAW1, ELAW2, LSV1, LSV2, SSWG8.a, SSWG8.d, SSUSH12.a, SSUSH12.c, and SSUSH13