Streams of Hope
Protecting Our Waterways, One Community at a Time
Even the smallest pond and the tiniest creek can shape the health of our planet. In Streams of Hope, our newest program, the Wyland Foundation invites teachers, students, families, and citizen scientists to discover, celebrate, and support the health of the lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands we all care about. Using maps, technology, art, science, and simple acts of care, Streams of Hope is the kind of program that brings the world together, starting from your backyard.
Lessons for All Grades
Students Grades 3-6: First Steps into Water Stewardship
Discover the Beauty and Importance of Waterways
In Streams of Hope, students in grades 3-6 are introduced to the interconnectedness of our natural world. Through interactive mapping and exploration, they’ll learn how local ponds, creeks, and rivers are all part of larger watersheds that connect us all. This program helps young students appreciate the beauty of our nation’s freshwater and marine resources while instilling a sense of responsibility to protect them. Artistic expression activities, such as drawing and photography, allow them to share their newfound understanding and love for these natural treasures.
Students Grades 7-10: Exploring and Innovating for a Better Future
Engage with Technology and Drive Real Change
Using advanced mapping tools and citizen science projects, students can investigate local water systems, identify potential threats, and explore real-world solutions. This program encourages students to create social networks, collaborate on environmental initiatives, and report their findings in real-time. By participating in hands-on water quality testing and STEM-based classroom applications, they not only learn about environmental science but also contribute valuable data to ongoing conservation efforts.
Community Engagement: Connecting People, Places, and Purpose
Discover and Protect Our Nation’s Waterways Together
Streams of Hope invites families and adults to explore the stunning lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands that shape our country’s landscape. Whether you’re traveling to a new destination or exploring your local environment, Streams of Hope shows you how to document your discoveries and share your insights with others who share a passion for preserving our planet. By participating in community events and citizen science initiatives, you’ll help ensure that these natural wonders remain healthy and pristine for generations to come.
Citizen Scientists: Making a Tangible Impact
Monitor, Collaborate, and Protect Our Waterways
Streams of Hope empowers citizen scientists to play an active role in safeguarding our water resources. Participants are encouraged to monitor local water systems, contribute data to a central database, and share their findings with researchers and local authorities. This collaboration between individuals, institutions, and municipalities creates a powerful network dedicated to improving the health of our waterways and coasts. By engaging in this program, citizen scientists help drive meaningful environmental change in their communities.
Innovative Tools For Hands-On Learning
Interactive Mapping and Exploration
Custom Mapping Tool: Explore local water bodies and understand the expansive networks of watersheds.
Inspirational Repository: Highlight the interconnectedness of water systems and the collective efforts to protect them.
Citizen Science and Water Quality Testing
Hands-On Learning: Participate in water quality testing and contribute geo-tagged data to aid conservation efforts.
Artistic Expression and Environmental Appreciation
Beauty Index and Environmental Health Index: Assess the aesthetics and biodiversity of local water systems.
Creative Projects: Use photography, art, and writing to express the beauty and importance of water resources.
STEM Integration and Classroom Application
Standards-Based Learning: Incorporate STEM subjects into environmental education with data mapping, analysis, and visualization.
Teacher Resources: Access comprehensive lesson plans and activities to support classroom integration.
Community Action Resources
Home, Community, and Workplace Projects: Take action wherever you are—at home, in your community, or at work—with tools and resources designed to support the ongoing health of freshwater and marine ecosystems in every region of the country.
Join Streams of Hope Today
Whether you’re a student, teacher, family, or citizen scientist, Streams of Hope offers something for everyone. Together, we can protect and celebrate the natural water resources that sustain life on our planet. To learn more or to get involved, contact us at [email protected].
In Streams of Hope, the Wyland Foundation has produced an innovative modern mapping experience that showcases great ways for protecting the environment, from our lakes to our streams and coasts. Whether you’re looking for simple ways to help the environment, or simply love discovering the amazing world of nature, this brilliant web application is a fantastic way for people of all ages to make a difference.