FREE for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders living in the Anacostia Watershed in DC, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County
The Summer River Explorers Academy is a free program for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders who live in the Anacostia River Watershed in DC, Prince George’s County, or Montgomery County. Through this explorative, outdoor recreational and educational experience, students learn about their river and local environment, while developing skills in team building, critical thinking, and scientific investigation.
The Summer River Explorers Academy is held the last week of June. 2026 Academy dates coming soon.
On these days we will meet from 9:30am to 3:30pm. The program meets at various public parks along the Anacostia River such as Bladensburg Waterfront Park, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, and Anacostia Park. From our meeting location, we will venture out together for various recreational and educational activities along the Anacostia River. Activities increase environmental awareness and give students the opportunity to take positive action to help improve their environment, as well as increase outdoor engagement. Activities may include boat tours, trash cleanups, wetland plantings, visits to community parks, mussel restoration, fishing, canoeing, etc.
Academy Themes Include:
- Exploring the Anacostia Watershed
- This day is focused on exploring the components of a watershed and how the surrounding watershed impacts the Anacostia river. Students will be introduced to the Anacostia river through hands-on experiences such as canoeing and motorized boating on the river focused on watershed history and human impacts!
- Becoming an Anacostia River Scientist
- This day is focused on environmental science and Anacostia River restoration. At Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, part of the National Park Service, students will actively investigate the health of the Anacostia River by conducting water quality tests and searching for animals in the watershed.
- Diving into the Anacostia River Community
- This day is focused on connecting the students with the Anacostia community by exploring different community-centered activities such as fishing and participating in environmental activities with groups such as the Friends of Anacostia Park and the Aquatic Resources Education Center.
Additional Information:
We ask that families only apply if they feel they can make a commitment to the program, barring unforeseen circumstances. Some exceptions to missing a session may be granted (e.g., school testing, sickness, COVID-19, etc.). If interested in applying for the 2026 summer program, please complete the following forms and submit per the instructions at the end of the application. If you have any questions, please contact Kendra Bierman, Director of Education and Outreach.
Wondering if you live in the Anacostia River Watershed?
Take a look at this map. If you live within the pink boundary, you’re eligible to apply!
Bad Weather Plan
AWS educators monitor the weather and have an action plan ready. Participants will be notified via email and a phone call if a program day is cancelled due to inclement weather. If that does happen we will aim to reschedule for that week’s rain date.
