EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS [Teacher Name] presents: Exploring Rising Tides in South Carolina EARTHWATCH STUDENT EXPEDITIONS [NAME OF HIGH SCHOOL]

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS WHAT IS EARTHWATCH? Since 1971, Earthwatch has made it possible for people from all walks of life to join leading scientists around the world to help with crucial environmental research. 2

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS THE MISSION OF STUDENT EXPEDITIONS To engage students worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. 3

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS EARTHWATCH AROUND THE GLOBE Earthwatch has 23 Student Expeditions in 16 countries. 4

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS EARTHWATCH RESEARCH PILLARS Earthwatch offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to conserve and explore our planet while delving into one of four research areas. 5

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS EARTHWATCH BY THE NUMBERS Last year, Earthwatch: Sent 3,150 participants aged 10 to 80 on research expeditions. Supported 141,520 hours of research done by volunteers across our whole portfolio of expeditions. Research teams are typically composed of three to five staff members, plus one or more teacher chaperones—so your teen is in excellent hands! 6

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS BENEFITS OF AN EARTHWATCH EXPEDITION Learn experientially through scientific field research. Work directly with environmental science experts. Get a boost for university applications and résumés. Explore career paths in the sciences. Support local communities and local educational initiatives. Grow personally and gain confidence. 7

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS BENEFITS OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL Students who travel internationally before the age of 18 do better. In high school: more than 80% had a GPA of 3.0 or higher. In college: more than 88% received a college degree. At work: half of travelers surveyed reported a household income of more than $75,000 as adults. Source: The Student Youth & Travel Association, The Impact of Early Travel Experiences (2010 survey). 8

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS A TYPICAL EARTHWATCH EXPERIENCE Teams for run 7 to 15 days. Teams accommodate 7 to 20 volunteers. Students will take on 2 to 5 research tasks per team. Students stay in simple but comfortable accommodations in the field. 9

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS OVERVIEW: EXPLORING RISING TIDES IN SOUTH CAROLINA The wetlands of South Carolina need you! Come explore the Hobcaw Barony, a protected wetland forest on the coast of the wildlife-rich Winyah Bay. By helping scientists understand climate change, you’ll be a part of protecting this critical wetland forest and others like it around the world. 10

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS THE RESEARCH: EXPLORING RISING TIDES IN SOUTH CAROLINA Hike to survey vegetation. Tag, measure, and identify tree and plants to help researchers calculate the amount of carbon stored in the forest. Collect samples. Collect crucial data on water and soil quality for lab analysis. Teams fielding May-August will count fireflies. Illuminated at night, you’ll count fireflies, a sensitive insect that conveys rich data about healthy habitats. Analyze samples. Learn the value of analyzing the water and soil samples you collected in the lab. 11

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS MEALS & ACCOMMODATIONS: EXPLORING RISING TIDES IN SOUTH CAROLINA Live and work on the Hobcaw Barony, a stunning expanse of protected forest. Stay in shared dormitory rooms with common dining and living areas. Enjoy American and regional staples, like grits and barbecue. 12

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS LEAD SCIENTIST: EXPLORING RISING TIDES IN SOUTH CAROLINA Dr. Alex Chow Assistant Professor Clemsom University Dr. Chow began his career researching drinking water in California’s Sacramento Delta. In the swamps of South Carolina, he explores how sea level rise and forest fires affect the wetland’s water. 13

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS SAFETY & WELFARE: EXPLORING RISING TIDES IN SOUTH CAROLINA Earthwatch creates a comprehensive risk assessment and emergency response plan specific to each project’s location and activities. Medical and evacuation insurance is provided for every participant. The Earthwatch Scientist is certified in first aid. Reliable cell phone communications for emergencies. All participants will receive detailed training on the identification and avoidance of venomous snakes, poison ivy, and other field hazards. 14

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Passports & Visas: Citizens of the U.S. and Europe DO need a passport, but DO NOT need tourist visas. Minors must also have a notarized letter from all parents or legal guardians stipulating that they may travel in the presence of an adult other than their parent or guardian. Insurance: Your contribution to Earthwatch includes insurance and medical evacuation coverage. Flights: The teacher leading the expedition will coordinate travel. Language: All Earthwatch expeditions are led in English. Packing Requirements: Earthwatch will provide an expedition briefing 90 days before the expedition with details of what to bring (and lots of other information). 15

EARTHWATCH.ORG/EDUCATION/STUDENT-GROUP-EXPEDITIONS NEXT STEPS Provide a $300 deposit and complete the Group Volunteer Registration Form by [Month, XX, 20XX]. Call me with any questions or to enroll your teen. CONTACT INFO: [Ms./Mr. Teacher] [Name of High School] [(XXX) XXX-XXXX] 16