Join us for a fun, hands-on environmental education event!
Centered on the ecology, culture, and significance of the Ocean Beach Estuary and the San Diego River.
This special one-day community event offers a live preview of our Natural LAW Field Trip Programs, giving families, educators, and community members a firsthand look at what students experience during our outdoor education programs.
LAND | AIR | WATER
Together, they form the whole Natural LAW ecosystem.
Our Natural LAW (Land, Air, Water) Program is observation-based, hands-on scientific investigation. Designed to align with NGSS Standards, our field trips connect students directly to the natural world through meaningful outdoor learning experiences.
What Students Experience on Our Field Trips
Through our Land, Air, and Water programs, students:
- Explore native plants and animals of the riparian ecosystem
- Examine owl pellets and feathers under microscopes
- Investigate animal tracks and ecological clues
- Use real field-science tools to collect and analyze data
- Examine river macroinvertebrates — yes, “River Bugs are Cool!”
- Identify birds on guided walks using binoculars and see animal skull replicas
River Bugs are Cool!
Students investigate river macroinvertebrates—powerful bioindicators that reveal the health of the river. By studying these organisms, participants learn:
- How scientists assess water quality
- Which species thrive in healthy versus impacted ecosystems
- How human activities influence river health
- What solutions can protect our watershed
- Identify the importance of the estuary and its native species
Why It Matters
The San Diego River estuary is one of the most ecologically significant habitats in our region. Through Natural LAW field trips, students:
- Engage in scientific analysis
- Build critical thinking and environmental literacy
- Develop stewardship values
- Experience the outdoors as scientists and explorers
When students understand the connections between Land, Air, and Water, they begin to see the ecosystem as an integrated whole — and themselves as part of it.
Explore
Whether you’re a family looking for meaningful outdoor engagement or an educator exploring field trip opportunities, this event offers a powerful glimpse into how Natural LAW transforms environmental education.
Space is limited. Join us and discover the San Diego River in a whole new way.
