3rd Annual

Watershed Forestry Institute for Teachers

July 19-22, 2001

in partnership with

New York City Dept. of Environmental Protection, NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation, International Paper Company Foundation, New York Society of American Foresters, National Hardwood Lumber Association

    The Watershed Forestry Institute provides teachers with the skills and knowledge to teach their students about the connection between watershed forests and water quality. Enrollment is limited to 20 participants, which includes an equal number from New York City and the local watershed communities. The program begins Thursday morning, July 19, and ends Sunday, July 22. All meals and lodging are included. Teachers are provided with all materials and curriculum, as well as a stipend upon completion of the Institute.

    The Frost Valley YMCA Straus Center is located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains and the New York City watershed. It boasts majestic views and exceptional food, and provides a wonderful setting in which participants will learn about watershed forestry issues. The presenters and staff include forestry and watershed specialists from public, private and non-profit organizations

    Integrating environmental education into a student’s education can enhance the ways in which they learn almost any subject, from math to language arts. The Institute includes instruction in three different environmental curricula: Project Learning Tree, Project WILD Aquatic, and Ways of the Watersheds. Facilitators lead teachers through workshops on how to navigate each curriculum guide and go through sample activities. Teachers then formulate an action plan for bringing what they’ve learned back to their students.

    Facilitated discussions about the issues surrounding New York City’s watershed help participants understand how forest management in watersheds impacts both rural and urban citizens with regard to water quality, ecosystem health, and the economy.

    Teachers really “Get their feet wet” when studying the aquatic life found in the East Branch of the Neversink River, adjacent to the Straus Center. Field trips include visits to a Model Forest, a NYC Reservoir and an active harvest site. Teachers learn first hand about forestry in the watershed and its impacts on water quality and local economies.

    Forestry and math go hand in hand. Teachers measure and observe trees with conventional forestry equipment, and learn how to help students make equipment for use in their own community. Field work plays a major role in this 4-day program, so be prepared for learning, a little hard work, and a lot of fun.

Contact or send inquiries to: 

    Becky Perry, Education Facilitator 

    Catskill Forest Association 

    P.O. Box 336Arkville, NY 12406 

    phone: (845) 586-3054

    fax:      (845) 586-4071

    e-mail: bperry@catskill.net