Mainspring Conservation Trust

Stewards of the Southern Blue Ridge

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You are here: Home / What We Do / Youth Environmental Education

Youth Environmental Education

*Teachers: concerned with COVID-19 protocols? Email Jason to discuss virtual learning options that are still fun and applicable to this region.

Studies show that in order for the next generation to care about the land, they must understand its value from a young age. Mainspring works closely with schools in the (upper) Little Tennessee and Hiwassee River Basins, summer programs and homeschool groups at many grade levels to encourage hands-on educational activities that allow kids to experience their natural surroundings in a way they can’t inside the classroom.

Aquatic biologist Jason Meador leads this program and provides all equipment needed. The activities include indoor or outdoor options and meets grade-specific science essential standards.

K-2nd grade

Includes:

  • Fish and aquatic insects
  • Geology
  • Skulls
  • Migrations
  • Trees

3rd – 5th grade

  • Nature games
  • Fish and aquatic insects
  • Chemistry
  • Migrations
  • Skulls
  • Watersheds

butterfly-migration

Middle School

  • Nature Games
  • Fish and aquatic insects
  • Chemistry
  • Water Cycle and human impacts
  • Watersheds
  • Habitats
  • Geology

High School

  • Fish and aquatic insects
  • Chemistry
  • Water Cycle and human impacts
  • Watersheds
  • Habitats
  • Geology
  • Elective Activities

If you are an educator and would like to explore ways Mainspring can help your students learn, contact Aquatics Program Manager Jason Meador.

Watch a video to learn more about Kids in the Creek and the impact it has on them. (special thanks to the WCU Documentary Film Class for the video.)

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557 East Main Street
Franklin, NC 28734
828-524-2711

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