Lake Erie: Science Education While Sailing

Join the crew and hoist the sails of a classic 73 foot coastal sailing vessel that doubles as a floating science classroom. The Buffalo Urban Outdoor Education (BUOE) Foundation has reinvented the traditional learning atmosphere and given a whole new meaning to the term hands-on science.

Thursday, June 11th, marked the BUOE's first sailing education program that hosted 25 students and five teachers from Hopevale Union, Hamburg. During the time spent on deck, sailors are presented with lessons ranging from water quality, urban runoff and pollution, fish biology, invasive species, navigation and other subjects that promote environmental literacy and curiosity. The students of Hopevale Union examined plankton and live fish, tested the quality of the water and each took part in raising the sails and steering the vessel.

"The individual lessons were well instructed and held the student's interest. The amount of interaction and hands-on experience made the trip exciting. I have no complaints. The trip was fun and interesting. All staff worked exceptionally well with the students," stated a teacher from Hopevale Union after experiencing this program first hand.

This program is nothing short of phenomenal, since all lessons meet NYS standards in science.

The programs offered are open to school classes, after-school groups, youth groups, and even adult groups who are looking to have a new type of relaxing outdoor learning experience. So pack a lunch and set sail on a two hour adventure around the Lake Erie watershed, all the while supporting the development of the Buffalo waterfront.

The BUOE also hosts a program for families, teens and small groups called Watery Wednesdays, where participants can raise sails, steer, and observe the lake's floor. The boat leaves shore at 10AM and also 12AM on each Wednesday during the months of July and August. Adults can sail for $23, and kids under 12 pay $19.

Call ahead for tickets at 716.796.7210 (though sometimes you can show up and catch a ride). For more information, visit Buffalo Urban Outdoor Education's website.