2008 Highlights
Despite the overwhelming Texas heat the entire 3-day conference and hands-on science activities progressed smoothly with a group of 50 area teachers. Groundwater to the Gulf 2008 thanked teachers for their hard work and commitment to our youth; featured lab investigations, hands-on activities, and field trips to celebrate water and focus on current issues, local features, and natural systems; and connected teachers from different schools providing them the opportunity to network and share resources. 

Last year we had an unusual amount of spring rains bringing flooding and devastation. This year we've had severe drought, which was so very appropriate when addressing our water issues. Local experts focused on current issues concerning water and pollution solutions to provide teachers with the background knowledge and resources to bring this exciting topic into their classroom. Check out the pictures below to follow the Groundwater to the Gulf 2008 3-day journey.

The 3-day journey began with learning about watersheds and sinkholes.

 Teachers gear up to see the underground first hand at WFC's cave. 

 Hands-on actvities provide an overview of habitats along with a Wildflower Center Tour. 

"I liked the wide variety of potential labs that were introduced. It would be very easy to take back to other teachers in my team to use with students." - participating teacher

 Indentifying macroinvertebrates to determine water quality at McKinney Falls. 

What did you like most about the conference..."The fact that there was so much content from expert scientist, the relating of  activities to classroom teaching and TEKS, the fieldtrips, and outdoor element." - participating teacher

 Turbidity tests to determine water quality at McKinney Falls.

spotting the Blind Salamander at Eliza Springs and Orienteering at Barton Springs.

"Very hands-on, WOW! Can't get better than this. Loved the Freebies! Great field experiences!" - participating teacher

Passing a globe to determine "How Wet is our Planet?" and building paper monarchs to observe flight patterns.

 "Extremely well organized. Not a lot of standing aroun time. Great classroom activities that I will use... Field trips were awesome - perfect selection." - participating teacher

THANK YOU to our 2008 SPONSORS

Austin Geological Society  -  Corwin Engineering  -  Glenrose Engineering, Inc.  -  H-E-B  - Juan's Mexicali  -  McLean & Howard L.L.P.  -  Save Barton Creek Association  -  Schlotsky's