Sambucus nigra caerulea
Sambucus nigra caerulea
Chumash: qayas Español: Sauco
Chumash: qayas Español: Sauco
est. 2005
Once Upon a Watershed
is a program of the CREW
Telling the Story of Our Watershed Through Exploration, Education, and Stewardship
6th Grade - 'The Story of Our River'
OUW’s program for 6th grade students is “The Story of Our River”, which focuses on the critically endangered indicator species, Southern Steelhead Trout, and the effects of the Matilija dam on beach erosion and spawning access.
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Students become familiar with the Steelhead’s unique migration patterns, are introduced to the Matilija dam removal project, and learn about sediment transportation from mountains to beaches. This reinforces the connection that healthy rivers create healthy beaches.
The 6th grade direct action engages students in hands-on restoration work by having them plant native plants along the riverbank at the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy’s (OVLC) Steelhead Preserve. These plantings are done under the supervision of conservation biologists from OVLC and the California Conservation Corps.