Obed Rock Climbing and Paddling Program for Sixth Grade Homeschooled Students on May 18

Group of kids in funyaks on river

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News Release Date: May 1, 2015

Contact: Matt Hudson, 423-346-6294

Three years ago, Obed Wild and Scenic River launched its "National Park in Your Backyard" program for the sixth grade students of Morgan County. As in previous years, the opportunity to participate in this program will be extended to sixth grade students that are home-schooled or who attend schools other than public schools.

As a part of this program, students spend an entire day with National Park Service rangers with half of the day underneath Lilly Bluff, where they will learn to use pulleys in a mechanical advantage system to hoist an adult into the air. They will also have the opportunity to try firsthand the rock climbing that draws visitors to the Obed from around the world. Students will spend the other half of the day along the banks of Clear Creek, where they will learn to use aquatic organisms as a gauge of stream health. At this location, in calm water, they will also be given basic instruction in paddling canoes and kayaks. All necessary safety equipment such as harnesses, helmets and lifejackets will be provided.

To participate, students must be in the sixth grade and must attend school, whether in a home or other non-public school setting, in Morgan County. The total number of participants will be limited to 50 and the program will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. 

To sign up, please call the park office at (423) 346-6294 or email Chief Ranger Matt Hudson at matt_hudson@nps.gov. 

Enrolled participants should meet park staff at Lilly Bridge at 9:00 a.m. (ET). Each student must have a parent, teacher or other adult guardian present who will be responsible for that student. Students should bring drinking water, a lunch, sturdy footwear, sunscreen and a change of clothing if desired. The program should conclude around 3:00 p.m.

This program has been made possible with the help of a National Park Foundation Impact Grant. Please contact the park at (423) 346-6294 for additional information.



Last updated: December 10, 2015

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Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 429
Wartburg, TN 37887

Phone:

423 346-6294

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