Resources for Teachers in the Philadelphia Area
Understanding the Urban Watershed Curriculum
Fairmount Waterworks Interpretive Center has created an urban watershed curriculum for teachers. It is in the development stage, so things are changed almost daily, but many resources are already available, and it features a comprehensive lesson plan including storm water management, the importance of water, and water treatment for public use.
Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center
Email: fwwiceducate@comcast.net
A fascinating museum on the site of the historic Fairmount Water Works, near the Art Museum. Check out their website for local water news, visit information, and online lessons about water quality.
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Environmental Education Centers
Information about school visits and public programs at four local resource centers:
- Wissahickon Environmental Center
- Pennypack Environmental Center
- Cobbs Creek Community Environmental Education Center
- Fox Chase Farm
Office of Watersheds (Philadelphia Water Department)
A comprehensive source of information for what’s going on with water and watersheds in the Philadelphia Area. Includes information about local issues, current projects, and new initiatives to improve water management in our neighborhoods, including Philadelphia Green City/Clean Waters, a 25-year plan to make Philadelphia greener and more sustainable. Also check out the Vimeo Page for Green City/Clean Waters, which features short videos explaining Green City/Clean Waters and demonstrating stormwater management projects all over the city.
Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership Inc.
The Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed covers much of northern Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs. This website features an excellent basic overview of watersheds and water issues, local history about the watershed, and fun activities and projects.
EcoExpress
A broader resource for green living and environmental issues, using short videos about ordinary people throughout Pennsylvania. The videos are searchable by grade level and include connections to relevant teacher resources.
Philly Rivercast
What is the water quality status right now of the Schuylkill River? Information about current river conditions and what can affect water quality, and recommendations for what activities currently are and are not suitable at this time.
Philly H2O
A historical overview of Philadelphia sewers and Philadelphia’s “lost streams.” The website includes a wealth of information, including stories, pictures, maps, and newspaper clippings.