Submitted By: Quinn Martin, Franklin County 4-H Youth Educator
Sixth-grade students from James Buchanan Middle School explored the science of water and environmental stewardship during their annual Environmental Science Field Trip at Cowans Gap State Park on Friday, May 15. The outdoor learning experience featured nine educational stations, including an interactive workshop led by the Pennsylvania 4H Youth Development program.
The 4H station, titled Rain to Drain—Slow the Flow, engaged students in understanding how stormwater moves across land and how human development impacts groundwater resources. The session was delivered by Tina Reich, Cumberland County 4H Educator; Quinn Martin, Franklin County 4H Educator; and Madeline Musser, Franklin County 4H Assistant.
Through hands-on learning and guided inquiry, students discovered how water behaves in natural and developed environments. The Rain to Drain curriculum, developed by Penn State Extension, follows the movement of stormwater and emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging youth to apply scientific concepts to real-world issues.
At the 4H station, students participated in three interactive simulations designed to demonstrate the effects of land development on stormwater infiltration. Using model communities constructed with simple materials, students observed how rainwater moves differently across natural surfaces compared to impervious surfaces such as pavement, rooftops, and sidewalks. They collected and recorded data to compare how much water infiltrated into the ground versus how much became surface runoff.
In natural environments, most stormwater soaks into the ground, helping to recharge groundwater supplies. However, as communities develop and more impervious surfaces are added, runoff increases and infiltration decreases.
The simulations helped students visualize how these changes can contribute to environmental challenges such as flooding, water pollution, and reduced groundwater availability. They also explored solutions, learning how green infrastructure practices such as rain gardens, permeable pavement, and green roofs can improve water infiltration and reduce runoff.
By modifying their model communities, students tested how replacing traditional developed surfaces with green alternatives could lead to more sustainable outcomes. These practices are designed to mimic natural systems and help water return to the ground, improving both environmental health and water quality.
The 4H educators emphasized the importance of understanding these concepts at an early age, noting that groundwater is a critical resource for drinking water and agriculture. Many communities across the United States rely heavily on groundwater supplies, making conservation and responsible land development increasingly important.
The event highlighted the mission of 4H to empower youth through science-based education and community engagement. As one of the nation’s largest youth development programs, 4H focuses on helping young people develop the skills needed to create positive change in their communities.
For the sixth-grade students at James Buchanan Middle School, the day at Cowans Gap offered more than just a field trip; it provided a deeper understanding of how everyday decisions about land use can impact the environment. Through hands-on exploration and collaborative learning, students left with a greater understanding of the role they can play in protecting natural resources for the future.
Those interested in learning more about the Rain to Drain—Slow the Flow program or other opportunities offered through Franklin County 4H are encouraged to contact the Franklin County Extension Office at 717-263-9226.
