Freshwater Monitoring: A Case Study of the Elbow River

Alberta Parks

Get your students into the field to investigate water quality and discover what shapes a healthy watershed.

Quick Facts

Format

In-person Field Trip

Cost

$400/class

Grades

Grade 8, Grade 9, Grade 10

Length

Full day

Group Size

1–35 students

Language

English

Time of Year

Spring (Apr–Jun), Fall (Sep–Dec)

Setting

Outdoor

About This Program

Offered in partnership with the Elbow River Watershed Partnership (ERWP), students follow the Elbow River from its Kananaskis headwaters toward Calgary, investigating water quality through hands-on testing of biotic and abiotic factors. Along the way, they explore how different land uses may influence water quality and discover the important role protected areas play in safeguarding both the quality and quantity of our water.

Offered in partnership with the Elbow River Watershed Partnership (ERWP), this interactive program invites Grade 8, 9, and Science 10 students to explore the Elbow River and its watershed. Students will trace the river’s journey from its pristine headwaters in Kananaskis Country to Calgary, conducting hands-on tests of abiotic and biotic factors at key stops along the way. The program emphasizes the value of water, the role of protected areas in watershed health, and the impacts of land use on aquatic ecosystems. Guided by the idea that "the river is an expression of the landscape," students will engage in meaningful scientific study and discussions throughout the experience.

What to Expect

This is a full day field study in the Elbow River Watershed. All equipment and reagents are provided. Schools will require a bus for the whole day, as students will be taken to a number of stops between Elbow Falls and Redwood Meadows. School bookings also include an online teacher orientation, as well as access to a pre-trip video to prepare your students for their field trip day.

Curriculum Connections

Curriculum Connected

Grade 8 - Fresh Water Ecosystems Grade 9 - Environmental Chemistry Grade 10 - Science 10 (Nature of Science Focus)

Subjects

Science

Accessibility

Physical Accessibility

Alberta Parks believes no student should be left behind at school. This program can be adapted to support a range of student needs and abilities. Please identify any accessibility needs when booking. Your educator will work with you to make appropriate adaptations and help ensure all students can participate meaningfully in the program.

Neurodiverse Accommodations

Alberta Parks educators can adapt program activities, communication approaches, pacing and sensory experiences to support neurodiverse students and create a welcoming and inclusive learning environment. Please identify your students’ needs when booking. Your educator will work with you to consider these needs when designing and delivering your program.

How to Book

Bookings are accepted twice annually: February 1 for spring and summer requests, and June 1 for all requests. To request a program, email freshwaterfieldstudy@gmail.com and include the following information: -School name, address and telephone number -Teacher name(s) and email address(es) -Grade(s) -Number of classes and number of students per class -Program requested -Preferred date(s)