Homeschool Naturalists: Macroinvertebrates and Watersheds

Join us at Douthat State Park for Homeschool Naturalists, a monthly outdoor education series designed for homeschool students of all ages. Each session explores a different nature-based topic through hands-on activities, guided discovery, and time in the great outdoors. 

This session of Homeschool Naturalist is Macroinvertebrates and Watersheds. We’ll explore a nearby creek in search of macroinvertebrates—tiny, fascinating creatures like mayflies and stoneflies that help us understand water quality. Using nets and ID guides, we’ll collect and observe these critters up close and learn what their presence tells us about the health of the stream. Afterward, we’ll use a hands-on Enviroscape watershed model to see how pollution moves through a watershed and how our actions can impact water quality both locally and far downstream. Prepare to get your feet wet. 

If you plan to attend this program, please let us know by completing this form. 

Below are the dates and the topics for future Homeschool Naturalist events. 

May 6: Vernal Pool Explorers

Programs run from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Please meet at the Discovery Center.

This is a family-friendly program — parents or guardians must stay with their children. Please dress for the weather and be prepared for outdoor conditions. This is a rain or shine event.

Homeschoolers get free parking by showing their Notice of Intent Form to park staff. 

Parks are for everyone. If you have accessibility questions or concerns, please call 540-862-8114 or email Hannah.Johnson@dcr.virginia.gov.

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