REAL SCIENCE, REAL FUN!

Since 1979, the Edwards Aquifer Research and Data Center (EARDC) at Texas State University has hosted thousands of students from around Central Texas to come and explore the San Marcos River.

Remember!

This is a fun day and you will get wet! All participants should arrive in clothes that they plan to get wet in, but changing rooms are available. An extra pair of old shoes to be worn in the water is a must due to sharp rocks and the possibility of broken glass and other hazards in the water. Students will also need a towel, change of clothes (including shoes and socks!) and a sack lunch. It is also a good idea to bring plastic bags for wet and dirty shoes and clothes.

Aquatic Studies Field Day

Located on the stunning Texas State University campus in the beautiful Central Texas Hill Country, the Edwards Aquifer Research & Data Center (EARDC) has provided engaging field day programs for schools and community groups since 1979. Visitors can explore the biological, geological, and hydrological wonders of the Edwards Aquifer—a vast limestone groundwater system that supplies drinking water to millions of Texans while feeding local landmarks like Sessom Creek and the San Marcos River. During these field trips, students get an up-close look at rare, uniquely adapted subterranean species and learn about their fascinating underground lifestyles under a microscope in a university lab environment.

To explore the various field day options or plan a visit, contact Education Program Manager Kellie Donajkowski at eardc_education@txstate.edu or (512) 245-6176.

Aquatic Studies Field Day Program Information

Aquatic Biology and Ecology

Our most popular field day! Students will have a chance to explore the headwaters of the San Marcos river and/or Sessom Creek and collect and identify many diverse invertebrates that call these spring habitats home. Students will learn about water quality, aquatic ecosystems, insect life-cycles, and have the chance to use microscopes in a university lab environment. Recommended grades: 3 - 12.

Chemistry and Environmental Science

Students will conduct a hands-on investigation into the physical and chemical properties of a system of ponds, springs, streams, and an artesian well to discover more about the biological processes that keep our planet in balance. Students will learn about the chemical properties of water, oxygen and carbon cycles, acids and bases, and climate change. Recommended grades: 5-12

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV's)

This new class provides the opportunity for students to learn about the engineering design process and tackle problems independently. Students will work in small groups to design, create, and test their own underwater vehicles. They will be given all the parts they need to complete the engineering task where they will then drive their ROVs in our old fish hatchery ponds. Recommended grades: 5-12

Schedule

Programming runs for 3 hours, generally 9am-12pm, then students have a sack lunch on Texas State University grounds, with an optional glass-bottom boat tour at the Meadows Center following. Times and length of program can be adjusted to fit the needs of the group, contact the Education Program Manager to tailor the program to your needs.

Prices and Policy

LOCATION: We are located in the Freeman Aquatic Biology Building on the main Texas State University Campus in San Marcos. Our physical address is 220 E Sessom Dr. San Marcos, TX. We are near the intersection of Aquarena Springs Dr. and Sessom Dr., right across from the Kerby Lane.
COST: $75.00/student group of 15 or fewer; $5.00 for each additional student. There is no charge for teachers and other adults accompanying the group. Minimum charge: $75.00; MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 40 students.
PAYMENT: Cash, Credit Cards or Checks are accepted. Checks are made payable to: Texas State University. Payment will be collected upon arrival.

The Meadows Center will need to be contacted separately to book the following tours:

  • *GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOUR (optional): Cost is additional, please contact the Meadows Center for pricing and to book this tour. Payment will be collected upon arrival at Meadows Center. Please note that you will need to bring a separate check for the glass bottom boat tour!
  • *MEADOWS CENTER GUIDED TOUR (optional): Cost is additional, please contact the Meadows Center for pricing and to book this tour. Students can take part in a guided tour of the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment. This includes a glass bottom boat tour, guided wetlands walk, aquarium and discovery hall tour, and educational games and activities. Tour lasts approximately 2 hours and takes place at the Meadows Center for the Environment. 

TRANSPORTATION and PARKING: It is recommended that groups arrive by bus. If your group intends to arrive by private auto, we must be informed in advance so that special parking arrangements can be made.
Parking is $5 per car and $10 for non-school buses.

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Aquatic Biology and Ecology

water chemistry lab

Chemistry and Environmental Science

river collection

Remotely Operated Vehicles