OCEAN - Field Trip Program
Hosted by: Sedona Rainbow Trout Farm
The OCEAN Watershed Field Trip Program connects classroom science with living watershed ecosystems through hands-on environmental learning. Hosted at the Sedona Rainbow Trout Farm and the OCEAN Outdoor Classroom along Oak Creek Canyon, students explore trout biology, hatchery systems, and riparian ecology in a real-world setting.
Through guided instruction and field exploration, participants gain practical understanding of aquatic ecosystems, watershed dynamics, and environmental stewardship.
Program Overview
The Watershed Field Trip Program is a five-hour immersive environmental education experience designed for elementary through high school students. The program combines hatchery science, stream ecology, and applied environmental learning through a structured series of field-based stations.
Students rotate between classroom-style instruction and outdoor field environments, allowing them to observe and interact with the living systems that support trout and healthy watersheds.
The program serves:
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Public and private schools
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Homeschool organizations
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Youth groups and educational programs
Curriculum is adapted to match grade level and classroom learning goals.
Program Experience
Students participate in a structured, station-based field experience including:
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Hatchery systems tour at Sedona Rainbow Trout Farm
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Introduction to trout life cycles and fish management
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Exploration of water systems and hatchery operations
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Applied trout biology lessons, including anatomy and physiology
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Introduction to fly fishing/traditional fishing
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Stream ecology instruction along Oak Creek
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Aquatic insect identification and food web discussion
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Hands-on stream sampling and habitat observation
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Stewardship activities exploring conservation decision-making
Learning Outcomes
Participants gain understanding of:
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Trout biology and anatomy
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Hatchery science and aquaculture systems
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Riparian ecosystems and stream habitats
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Aquatic insects and freshwater food webs
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Watershed dynamics and water quality
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Environmental stewardship and conservation responsibility
Students leave with a stronger connection to aquatic ecosystems and a deeper understanding of how healthy watersheds support biodiversity and sustainable fisheries.
Program Details
Location
Sedona Rainbow Trout Farm & OCEAN Outdoor Classroom
Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona
Program Length
Approximately 5 hours
Group Size
Up to 30 students per session
Who Can Participate
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Public and private school classes
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Homeschool networks
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Youth and educational organizations
Programs are adaptable for elementary through high school students.
Connecting Science to the Natural World
Oak Creek Canyon provides a unique living laboratory where students can observe functioning aquatic ecosystems firsthand. By engaging with both hatchery systems and natural stream environments, participants gain a deeper understanding of how science, conservation, and habitat protection work together.
Interested in Participating?
Educators and organizations interested in scheduling a field trip are encouraged to contact OCEAN to learn more about program availability and group scheduling.