The Colorado River Foundation believes that youth who learn and understand the value of the Colorado River as a resource are more likely to take steps to protect it as adults. Through the Kids on the Colorado program, the Colorado River becomes a teaching tool to introduce participants to the following topics and more:
- the water cycle
- components of healthy aquatic ecosystems
- aquatic wildlife
- water resource protection
- river ecology
- camping
- rafting and boater safety
- conservation and stewardship
- fishing
- outdoor responsibility
Through a 2-3 hour rafting trip down the river, hands-on experiments, nature hikes, and exciting river presentations, participants explore their role as river stewards and form a lasting personal connection with the Colorado River.
The Foundation offers the Kids on the Colorado program in partnership with the Lower Colorado River Authority, who provide the staffing, facilities and logistical support to maximize the regional outreach of the program. Program sites for Kids on the Colorado have included numerous LCRA sites and facilities, including:
- McKinney Roughs Nature Park, Bastrop County
- Matagorda Bay Nature Park, Matagorda County
- Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park, Burnet County
- Cooper Farm Natural Science Laboratory, Fayette County
- Nightengale Archeological Center, Burnet County
- Westcave Preserve, Travis County
At least 65% of the students who participate in Kids on the Colorado programs come from underserved populations and receive scholarships funded by the Colorado River Foundation.
It costs only $40 to sponsor one participant’s program expenses. For more information about sponsorship, please click here or contact us at (512) 498-1587.
