Summer 2025 Program Application Opens March 1st

Watershed Explorers is a high school program sponsored by the Math Science Nucleus and funded by Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. Over the course of the program, students will explore different components of the Southern Alameda watershed, from creeks and open aquatic areas to marine zones. Each week, they will engage in hands-on experiments that allow them to interact directly with these ecosystems, learning through real-world experience.

Students will also hear from guest speakers who are professionals in various fields related to environmental science. These experts will share their knowledge and guide students through immersive activities in different areas of the watershed, providing insight into the science and practical applications of environmental work.

A watershed or drainage basin refers to a system controlled by topography, which defines how water will flow. You refer to a watershed by the largest body of water that the creeks, rivers or streams feed into. For example, all creeks that flow in the San Francisco Bay are part of the San Francisco Watershed. In this program, each week will focus on a different aspect of the local watershed; this program is designed for only 2-3 hours on the following Saturdays (times TBD):

15 students will be chosen through an application-based process. To qualify, students must have taken one year of science in high school and need to be a sophomore or higher. A limited virtual component will be available for students who were not selected for the in-person portion, but are still interested in learning more about our weekly topics. 

Tentative schedule (subject to change):

May 31st - Orientation

June 7th - Riparian (Tule Ponds at Tyson Lagoon)

June 14th - Creek (Alameda Creek)

June 21st - Marine (Newark Shoreline)

June 28th - Riparian (Quarry Lakes)

July 12th - Creek (Stivers Lagoon)

July 19th - Marine (Eden Landing)

July 26th - College Panel