Running time: 7 minutes. Produced in Partnership with the U.S. Forest Service. 2014
The Watchable Waters of Appalachia
A virtual dive into into some of North America's richest rivers, and a fun look at an innovative river snorkeling program that has brought thousands of citizen snorkelers to the vibrant waters of Southern Appalachia.
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Applicable Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) by grade level include:
Grades 3-5
Middle School
High School
Crosscutting Concepts
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Students will learn about river snorkeling, a lesser-known outdoor activity.
Students will learn about the value of national forests.
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Biodiversity - The total variety of all living organisms in a particular place.
National Forest - Public land managed by the federal government, specifically the United States Forest Service, for use by the public.
Snorkel - A short tube with a mouth piece that allows a user to breathe while their face is underwater.
Mask - A clear viewing window worn over the eyes that allows the user to see underwater.
Wetsuit - A piece of clothing commonly that holds an insulated layer of water next to the body. Wetsuits allow people to snorkel in waters that might otherwise be too cold.
Watch the Film
In English. EN, ES closed captions optional (use 'CC' box in bottom control bar). Full screen viewing button on lower right.
Film Discussion and Reflection
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What gear is needed to snorkel? What other equipment might be useful?
Why did the Forest Service start the snorkeling program?
Why are rivers on national forests good for snorkeling?
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If you were to snorkel in nearby waters, what kinds of things would you expect to see? What would you like to see?
Can you think of other activities that allow people to experience the natural world?
What advantages and disadvantages are there to experiential learning compared to classroom learning?
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Jim Herrig - Aquatic Biologist, U.S. Forest Service
Casper Cox - Volunteer Snorkel Guide
Images available to download for educational and classroom uses. Access more freshwater imagery at the Freshwaters Illustrated Archive.
Extended Exploration
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Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail - Information about the newly created Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail provided by the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, map links to Snorkel Trail sites provided by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, and an FAQ about the Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail.
USFS Information on River Snorkeling
River Snorkeling in the Northwest - an article in Oceanographic and a video from Oregon Field Guide (PBS) about snorkeling rivers in the Pacific Northwest.
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Related Pages and Lessons
Tags: click a tag to view other film pages related to that subject.
