What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to assess the impact of a watershed education and restoration project on youth in Virginia.

May 28, 2026

Restoring the Chesapeake--A Watershed Education and Restoration Project for Virginia Youth

Key Points

The aim is to assess the impact of a watershed education and restoration project on youth in Virginia.
Distributed over 37,000 hardwood seedlings to school groups and 4-H leaders in 19 counties.
Used GIS to identify subwatersheds needing restoration.
Provided educational materials through a Web site to facilitate learning and communication.
3 years are needed to develop partnerships for large-scale restoration projects.
Hands-on activities like planting trees led to significant knowledge gains.
Utilizing land-use maps and a Web site also contributed to increased understanding of watersheds.

Abstract

A watershed education and restoration project was started in the Virginia portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed in 2002. Over 37,000 hardwood seedlings were distributed to school groups and 4-H leaders in 19 counties. A geographic information system (GIS) identified subwatersheds in greatest need of riparian restoration. A Web site provided educational material and facilitated communication. Results indicate 3 years are needed to develop partnerships necessary for large-scale projects such as this one. Hands-on activities like planting trees result in large knowledge gains. Use of land-use maps and a Web site also result in knowledge gain about watersheds

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