Marine Education engages students in discussion about the social and geologic history of the Hudson River to provide context. The class is given a demonstration of rod and reel safety and proper usage, before breaking into groups: Groups will switch halfway through the program, so every student can explore both urban park ecosystem and Hudson River Estuary ecology.
Catch-and-release fishing teaches students about biodiversity within the river, and to make meaningful connections with nature. Any species caught will be measured, identified, and kept in aquaria for observation before being released back into the river.
A nature walk through the nearby park introduces sustainability and water conservation concepts, and engages students in the living environment around us.
The program concludes by bringing the class back together to observe and learn about any species caught during the trip, and share our experiences. Any species caught are documented and returned safely to the river.
After the program ends, students are welcome to enjoy their lunch on shady benches nearby.
Battery Park City is a neighborhood on the lower west side of Manhattan, with 36 acres of parks and greenspaces open to the public year-round. Each park in the neighborhood has its own unique features, and field trips are located in various parks to showcase these. Trips take place in the following park spaces:
Rockefeller Park's sunny lawns and waterfront views offer a unique perspective as students learn about resilient parks and cities.
Rector Park is notable for it’s designation along the DEC’s New York State Birding Trail. Its cool gardens are an important stop for migrating and local wildlife.
South Cove offers cool shady woodland plantings overlooking a quiet cove of the Hudson River.
Newly reopened Wagner Park has resilient infrastructure to reduce coastal flood risks and provide front lines protection from climate-related extreme weather. This beloved park on the southern end of the Battery Park City neighborhood allows visitors to get up close to the Hudson River, explore native plantings, and enjoy beautiful art installations.
Biology, Ecosystems, Animals, Climate, Conservation, Cultural Connections
30 students, Min 3 chap.
90 min.
Field Trip
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Adult