Bowling Green, VA — Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) was thrilled to host a Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (MWEE) for Caroline High School Environmental Science students on August 27–28, 2025. Over the course of two days, 165 students explored the Rappahannock River at Hicks Landing, engaging in hands-on science and outdoor discovery. The event was made possible through the collaboration of community partners and generous local support.
Students rotated through a variety of interactive stations led by environmental professionals:
- Fort A.P. Hill, Environmental & Natural Resources Division – Wetland delineation, plant identification, and soils
- Hanover-Caroline Soil & Water Conservation District (HCSWCD) – Watersheds and the water cycle
- Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) – Kayaking and water quality testing
From paddling the river to conducting water quality experiments, students experienced firsthand how watersheds function and why healthy ecosystems are vital.
One student shared, “I had never seen a bald eagle before. Kayaking on the river and spotting one made the whole experience really cool.”
The transportation costs for students were fully covered by two teacher grants from HCSWCD, ensuring all students had the opportunity to participate. Environmental Science teachers Kelly Shields and Sharon Swanton accompanied their classes and supported students throughout the experience.
Reflecting on the program, teacher Kelly Shields said, “It’s one thing to teach about watersheds and ecosystems in the classroom, but taking students outside and letting them see it for themselves makes all the difference. Experiences like this give our students a connection to the Rappahannock that a textbook can’t provide.”
This opportunity was made possible by strong community partnerships. On March 22, 2025, St. Asaph’s Episcopal Church in Bowling Green hosted a community Oyster Roast with proceeds benefiting Friends of the Rappahannock. FOR supported the event with an oyster restoration informational table and recycled the oyster shells for future reef projects. Proceeds from the event directly funded this Caroline High School watershed program.
“Programs like this bring the river to life for students,” said Robin Didlake, FOR’s Lower Rappahannock Education Manager. “When students are out on the water, planting their boots in the soil, and connecting science to where they live, it creates a lasting appreciation for the Rappahannock River and the environment around them.”
Friends of the Rappahannock extends sincere thanks to St. Asaph’s Episcopal Church, Chris Hicks and family, for graciously hosting at Hicks Landing, HCSWCD, and Fort A.P. Hill for making this experience possible.
Photos available upon request.
Media Contact:
Carleigh Starkston
Friends of the Rappahannock
carleigh.starkston@riverfriends.org
www.riverfriends.org