Students learn about turbidity
Education Programs
TERC's goal is to provide science-based information about the Lake Tahoe region in order to foster responsible action and stewardship. The following educational programs are planned for the Thomas J. Long Foundation Education Center located within the Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences. These programs will be led by the UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center with leadership from director Geoffrey Schladow and education and outreach coordinator Heather Segale.
Education Center and Green Building Tours
Education Center and Green Building Tours will be offered Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and and Saturdays, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. during peak summer months. Exhibits in the Thomas J. Long Foundation Education Center provide visitors with an understanding of the environmental issues of concern at Lake Tahoe and throughout the western United States. Video exhibits contain information about what makes Lake Tahoe so special; the scientific research at the lake and how research is being used in restoration efforts; and the role the public plays in efforts to preserve and protect environmental quality. Tours include three interactive display areas where visitors can discover and explore Lake Tahoe. 3-D visualization lab includes an “earth viewer” and “Lake Tahoe Digital Elevation Model.” Walk-in visitors are welcome or call (775) 881-7566 to schedule a tour.
Student Field Trips to Education Center
TERC is working to bring fifth and sixth grade students to the Education Center so that students have an opportunity to learn about the unique features of Lake Tahoe, the interesting science and research activities occurring here, and how they can protect this watershed. Activities are coordinated with state science curriculum. Teachers should visit here to learn more.
Monthly Lecture Series
The Monthly Lecture Series provides a forum for community members to gain access to scientific experts. Faculty from UC Davis and other institutions, including regional, national and international campuses, along with governmental and private industry scientists will present focused lectures on various environmental issues, scientific research and related regional topics of interest.
Docent Training Programs
The docent training programs are currently offered twice per year in the spring and fall. The training program consists of 5 three-hour sessions.
Youth Science Institute
UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center (TERC) and Space Science for Schools (SS4S) are offering a 15-week (February through May) afterschool program for high school students. Click here for more information.
Trout in the Classroom
Selected classrooms participate in the Trout in the Classroom program each year. Click here for more information.
Special Events
Various events, such as Children’s Environmental Science Day, Science Expo,and Summer Star Parties are planned each year. Programs for educators including Project WET workshops and Watershed Tours are also planned regularly. Check the Calendar for details.
Technical Workshops
Various technical workshops including the Physical Processes in Natural Waters, Streambank Restoration, and others are scheduled at the Tahoe Center for Environmental Sciences building.
Summer “Tahoe Teacher Institute”
In 2008, UC Davis partnered with the Delta Sierra Science Project to host the first Tahoe Teacher Institute. A future summer institute is currently being planned for 2010.