The Knox County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is excited to share an educational opportunity for 7th grade students in Knox County — a hands-on rafting expedition and conservation field trip on the Wabash River.
This interactive experience is designed to connect students with one of Indiana’s most significant natural resources — the Wabash River — while teaching them about its history, importance, and ecological value. Students will learn firsthand how conservation practices impact the health and quality of the river and its surrounding environment.
Each school is scheduled for a one day event in September with one additional postponement day set two weeks later. If weather or river conditions are unfavorable the SWCD will offer to have the educational stations at either the George Rogers Clark Memorial grounds or at the school. School ground location options could be a grassy area, parking lot, gym, or other open space at the school’s discretion.
Field Trip Overview
Students will launch from Ouabache Trails Park and raft 3.5 miles down the Wabash River to the George Rogers Clark Memorial. The rafting portion will last approximately 1.5–2 hours. Along the way, they’ll participate in a GPS-guided scavenger hunt designed to help them identify the flora and fauna that call the Wabash River their home, integrating technology and environmental education.
Indiana Conservation Officers, along with local first responders will highlight water safety and the proper way to wear a life jacket before launching. They will also be available for assistance on the water as they will be patrolling the route. After the rafting portion, students will eat lunch and then rotate through a series of engaging, hands-on educational stations led by local conservation professionals.
Modeled After a Proven Program
This event is modeled after the long-running and highly successful Sullivan County 8th Grade Wabash River Rafting Expedition, which has been providing hands-on river education to students since the year 2000. We are eager to bring a similar experience to the students of Knox County and make this an annual tradition.
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