The Hudson River Reserve brings thousands of students and teachers out to the estuary every year. We provide hands-on science investigation on the Hudson, educational videos, lesson plans, professional development, and training to help educators connect their students with the Hudson from wherever they are.
For more information on all our programs, please visit the DEC website, or the HRNERR website.
Hudson River Curriculum
Explore our collection of Hudson River lesson plans, videos and online activities to support hand on investigations of the Hudson River in your classroom.
Topics include watersheds, tides, estuaries, and aquatic life found in the Hudson River.
Day in the Life of Hudson and Harbor
Day in the Life of the Hudson and Harbor is a community education science event which brings more than 5,000 students and teachers to the banks of the Hudson each year. Students work with their peers to collect real data on the “pulse of the Hudson” from NY Harbor to the Federal Dam in Troy and beyond.
Eel Monitoring
Every year, juvenile American Eels travel over 1,000 miles up to the tributaries of the Hudson River. Every spring, students and volunteers put on their waders and hop in the river with us collect valuable information on eels to understand their populations.
This project is a chance to get involved directly with real science in the river, helping researchers collect important data about these migratory fish.
Norrie Point
Immerse your students in the Hudson River with free field and virtual programs available at the Norrie Point Environmental Center for students in high school and older.
Our programs draw on real field research and provide first-hand experiences with the estuary. Students explore the Reserve’s lands and waters, and the wildlife within them.
Professional Development
We offer teacher trainings and workshops to help educators implement place-based learning to their students and staff.
- Teachers on the Estuary (TOTE): Join us for a three-day program where educators learn hands-on field activities and lessons that can be brought back to the classroom. Each summer a different topic will be offered, and CTLE credits are available. This is a part of NOAA’s national “Teachers on the Estuary” initiative.
- Women in Science Winter Speaker Series : Each winter, meet and learn from scientists, community leaders, and environmental educators who work at the intersection of research, education, and environmental and social justice. This free online series is designed for educators and is open to the public. Check back in November for the 2024 schedule.
Grants and Opportunities
Financial assistance and paid early career opportunities are available to support education and research on the Hudson River Estuary.
DEC Education Resources
The Reserve’s state partner, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, provides educational resources for caregivers, parents & educators.