From the Redwoods to the Bay

We all know that redwood forests are part of a larger ecosystem, the components of which can find themselves closely intertwined and interconnected. This system can often be referred to as a watershed, where all the land-borne water downward, starting at the tops of the hills and making its way to the ocean. Everything in a watershed is connected, from the redwood forests to the San Francisco Bay — and knowing your place within the watershed can be a powerful tool in protecting these natural areas.

For this reason, the League in partnership with East Bay Regional Park District started a new education program this year: Exploring Your Watershed. This program brings elementary school students on two field trips, one to the redwoods in the fall and one to the Bay in the spring. Through hands-on activities they learn about these two ecosystems, how they connect to the greater watershed and what role they play in protecting these areas. The students discovered how redwoods have superpowers, conducted a transect on the mudflats near the bay and picked up trash on the beach.

This year, 100 students from Oakland discovered the wonders of their watershed. Through these experiences they will forever remember the importance of protecting and caring for the natural areas around where they live.

Learn more about Save the Redwoods League education programs like this.

About the author

Deborah joined the League's staff in 2013 as the Education & Interpretation Manager. She brings with her extensive experience teaching science, developing curriculum and connecting kids to the natural world.

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