The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands: Education

Beginning Birder for 4th to 12th grade                                              Let the EWBC teach your class about what is so special about the Rio Grande Valley when it comes to birds! Students will learn to use tools such as binoculars, scopes, and field guides as they tour the grounds learning how to identify the numerous diverse species at our site. This program is a great way to get your students outside and is sure to open their eyes to the unique role of South Texas in bird migration.

Power of Pollination! for 2nd to 5th grade                                         Did you know that pollinators are responsible for 1 out of every 3rd bite of food we eat? In this lesson children learn about the connection between pollinators like bees and butterflies and how plants grow. Students are introduced to several different pollinators, from bees to bats. Lesson may include use of magnifying glass, microscope and data collection sheets. A fun way to learn about the importance of pollinators!

"Wetland Exploration" for 4th to 6th grade                                      This interactive, science-based hands-on program will introduce students to a world they have never encountered. Water scorpions, odonates, and pond critters galore, your kids will get their hands wet and their feet dirty exploring wetlands. Some of the activities include dip-netting, water testing, and/or a microscopes.

Natural History Tours for 5th to 12th grade                                   During this program students will learn the use of field equipment, such as binoculars, field guides and check lists. On a guided tour of our grounds, students will learn about native plants, wildlife and the history of our site.  A great introduction to the diversity found in our native habitat oasis. A short introductory lesson of field safety is included.

Turtle Power for 5th to 12th grade                                               Turtles always amaze our visitors, and there are a few species that are native to the Valley. In this lesson students will get a close up encounter with our red-eared sliders, learn about the difference between reptiles and amphibians as well as their habitat. Following the turtle presentation, students will learn about some of the difficulties that turtles encounter in an active educational game! Also available as an Outreach Program.

Extended EWBC Experience                                                            This is a two hour long program for those interested in being at our site for a more in depth trip.  Easily tailored to many grades, this can include a puppet show, walk, and two other relevant themed activities. We are always willing to incorporate subjects that are being taught in the classroom into field trips with adequate notice. 

Custom & Specialized Programs                                                         Do you have a topic in mind that you would like our staff to cover? If so, please speak to our Education Department about customizing a program just for your group.  Fees are generally $2 per child/per hour and we can accommodate up to 100 children at a time depending on the group.

Educator Workshops                                                                       The EWBC is pleased to offer educator workshops, providing interdisciplinary lessons and activities that teachers of all grade levels can use to bring environmental education and awareness to their classrooms. Workshops offered include Project WILD, Project WILD Aquatic and WOW: The Wonders of the Wetlands.  If you are interested in scheduling a workshop or would like information on upcoming workshops, please contact Lily Cruz, the Environmental Education Coordinator.