Staunton River Battlefield State Park hosted the 13thannual Environmental Field School June 18 – 22. This program was designed to promote interest in stewardship of natural resources and build a foundation for future education in environmental sciences.
Students learn about water quality at the Environmental Field School
The Staunton River is the perfect outdoor classroom for about learning about watersheds.
This year, a total of twelve sixth grade students from Southside, Lake County, and Halifax Soil and Water Conservation districts attended this event. The Halifax Soil and Water Department chooses up to ten participants from each county based upon applications stating their interest in environmental issues.
The curriculum focused on watershed study and planning, erosion and sediment control, forestry, biological and chemical stream monitoring, and plant identification. A variety of activities supported this curriculum and included fish prints, nature walks, watershed modeling, and demonstrations. The students also toured the historical earthworks fortifications, bridge, and archaeological site within the park as well as the nearby Clover Power Station.
The week concluded with a half-day canoe tour of the Staunton River and a fish shocking demonstration. Through monetary donations, the Environmental Field School is conducted at no cost to the students.
In addition to being the site of the Historic Battle of Staunton River Bridge, Staunton River Battlefield State Park has trails for biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
LOCATION: Eighteen miles east of South Boston. Take Route 92 to Clover. Go approximately five miles to Route 600 and turn left. Go about another three miles and turn right on Route 855.
OVERNIGHT FACILITIES: No overnight accommodations, however the park is 20 minutes from Staunton River State Park (camping and cabins). For information on availability of other parks' overnight accommodations, particular park amenities or to make a reservation, you can reserve online or call 1-800-933-PARK. Click here for park fees.
