School Field Trips

After hiking down a scenic nature trail, participants will use seining and dip nets, while wading in the bay and tidal pools (depending on tide, students may be walking through water up to their knees). They will catch and identify many different species of animal life to determine the health of the Chesapeake Bay and learn the importance of this spectacular estuary and the surrounding wetland ecosystem!

Discover the amazing filtering ability of this important mollusk and its effects on Chesapeake Bay water quality. Participants will learn about the life cycle of an oyster and the process of restoring the oyster population that many restoration organizations are currently engaged in. Participants will also explore the importance of oyster reefs so vital to the Bay’s biodiversity by learning different reef structures and configurations and the success of these artificial habitats. Finally, participants will examine live reef shell looking for a myriad of inhabiting organisms that live within the Benthic Community.

Open the world of bird watching to your students with activities designed for learning about birds through observation in the field. Students will explore identification and behavior of both resident and migrant birds. They will take to the field and observe birds doing the “bird daily routine” and locate bird signs, such as feathers, nests, and food remains. They will learn how to use binoculars, field guides and migration charts. This is an educational program packed with activities that promote an appreciation for birds and provides a carry-over value to the kid’s backyard, community and beyond.

During this program, participants will meet several different species of raptors, and discover the special adaptations of these birds of prey. Through up-close observations and discussions, the participants will learn about the unique visual and auditory adaptations, as well as other features that put these hunters at the pinnacle of the food chain. Special attention will be given to the importance of raptors to an ecosystem, especially the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Finally, participants will conduct a pellet dissection and use identification materials to determine the diet of an owl.

Bee a friend to Pollinators! During this program, students will investigate the process of pollination and gain an understanding of what pollinators are, what they do and their important role in our lives and world food production. Students will participate in games, use scientific skills and engage in interactive discovery to grasp the importance of pollinators and their relationship with plants.

We predict a 100% chance of learning fun when students participate in “What’s the Weather?” Students will engage in learning about various weather components, explore the connection with pollinators, have an opportunity to use weather instruments, play weather games and engage in fun activities to gain a deeper understanding of earth’s natural weather patterns.

Looking for an outdoor, hands-on learning experience for your home school students? Spend the day learning about Maryland’s wildlife at Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center. Our educators are here to cater to your students’ curriculum! We provide a unique learning environment for your Home school groups and Co-ops and can accommodate students at all levels and abilities. We know that you may have students in many different grade levels learning together. We are ready to adapt our lessons to fit your needs.