2010 Summer Science Program
ALCOSAN’s Summer Science Program provides students in grades 5 - 9 opportunities to explore environmental science through guided, hands-on activities conducted in various outdoor settings. Students will discover the many ways that wastewater treatment impacts watershed ecology both locally and in regions beyond Allegheny County.
Camp Activity Descriptions:
Session One: Biodiversity - June 21-25, 2010 (Grades 5 & 6 only)
This session of Summer Science focuses on the diversity of life within the whole environment. To understand biodiversity, students will interact with creatures and learn their habitats. They’ll discover land animals native to Pennsylvania, reptiles and amphibians, and of course, a myriad of aquatic life. They’ll make connections to the importance of water quality and the environment while participating in creek sampling activities to measure oxygen levels, pH and other important variables associated with pollution in aquatic habitats.
Session Two: Engineering - July 12-16, 2010 (Grades 7 & 8 only)
Engineers work in many aspects of society including wastewater treatment. This session of Summer Science will examine the various roles of engineers in environmental organizations. Students will engage engineers in hands-on activities to calculate storm water runoff and understand the implications of slope on surfaces subject to wet weather conditions. Students will also understand the importance of environmentally feasible infrastructure to reduce runoff for protection against flooding and to reduce CSO and SSO events.
Session Three: Clean Water Technology + You = Pittsburgh's Future - July 26-30, 2010 (Grade 9 only)
It is important for students to have knowledge about natural resources, particularly water, and to understand the role of technology in maintaining and renewing resources. Learning the chemistry of wastewater, students will identify live microorganisms from our treatment process that contribute to the removal of solid waste matter in the secondary treatment process at ALCOSAN. Students will identify and understand the use of renewable and non-renewable resources.
Who is Eligible to Participate?
All students currently in grades 5 - 9 attending schools within the ALCOSAN service area are eligible to participate. Students may attend ONE session of camp. Due to limited enrollment it is recommended that students register early to secure a place on the roster. Once enrolled, students are required to attend each day of camp. We ask that students consider conflicts that may arise with vacation plans, picnics, graduations or other obligations. Only completed registration information will guarantee a place on the roster.
Parents are required to attend a parent/student orientation on either of the following dates:
Saturday, June 19 at 10:00 a.m., or
Saturday, July 17 at 10:00 a.m.
How Much Does the Program Cost?
There are no fees associated with the Summer Science Program. Morning snack and lunch will be provided daily.
Is Transportation Provided?
Transportation to and from the treatment plant will be provided from centralized points throughout ALCOSAN's service area. Please contact us for more information.
What is the Program Schedule for 2010?
1st Session: June 21 - 25 (Grades 5 & 6 only)
2nd Session: July 12 - 16 (Grades 7 & 8 only)
3rd Session: July 26 - 30 (Grade 9 only)
Program hours are 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.
(Students may arrive as early as 8:30 a.m. and depart no later than 3:45 p.m.)
How Do I Enroll My Child?
For enrollment information, please contact Twila Simmons-Walker at 412-732-8045 or by email at twila.simmons-walker@alcosan.org.