Connect people of all ages to the river, and they’ll want to want to protect it.
Education programs from HVA offer first-hand experiences on and around the river and its tributaries, giving everyone the opportunity to learn more about local wildlife, river science, and history.
For kids, the best classrooms have no walls
Touching a frog for the first time, turning over leaves and rocks to find caddisflies, donning hip waders to scoop crayfish and trout… these are the experiences that get kids from kindergarten through high school learning while having fun. HVA conducts school programs that meet state science guidelines, with age- appropriate lessons in biology, ecology, chemistry and more. Want to bring a program to your school or club? Contact Alison Dixon, HVA Outreach Coordinator to learn more.
For adults and families, it’s all about the fun
Paddling a canoe or kayak is easy to learn, and HVA offers many FREE to the public classes to get you comfortable. From there, you can join an adventure on the river looking for turtles, exploring historical sites, birdwatching or just enjoying a day on the water. Expert guides help everyone to gain a new appreciation for our natural world.
Not a fan of the water? You can join us on guided nature and history hikes along riverside trails and parks, or even the legendary Appalachian Trail. Just like our paddle trips, expert naturalists, scientists and historians share their local knowledge and passion along the way.
Join our mailing list (using the form at right), or follow us on Facebook, for alerts and schedules as soon as they’re announced.
Taking education into the virtual age
Augmented reality (AR) is an emerging technology that allows history and nature to come alive in new and exciting ways. We’re piloting a mash-up of AR technology and trails at the Old Mill Trail from Dalton to Hinsdale, Mass. that highlights the industrial history of the river. All you need is a smartphone and the free Aurasma app to get started.
[Download for Android] [Download for iPhone/iPad]
More the “self-guided learning” type?
Check out our Paddle Guides to the Housatonic (Berkshire and Connecticut editions) and our many trail guides. Not just maps, they include tons of local information about wildlife, native plants & trees, safety tips and much more. All free for the asking. Download here or request a free print copy by calling 860-672-6788.
