Lessons on the Lake: An Educator's Guide to the Pontchartrain Basin

Painting of pelicans flying over the lake. The Lake Pontchartrain Basin, formed about 5,000 years ago, is a vast ecological system of over 4,700 square miles. Many cultures have inhabited its lands and fished its waters. From Native Americans to the French settlers of New Orleans to present-day citizens, we have all benefited from the Pontchartrain Basin's rich natural resources.

The goal of Lessons on the Lake: An Educator's Guide to the Pontchartrain Basin is to educate students, grades 5-12, about the environmental importance of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin. The guide facilitates instruction for teachers, allows easy access to information on environmental issues surrounding the watershed, and captures the interests of students.

The activities provide youngsters with an understanding and appreciation of the the Lake Pontchartrain Basin and give them the skills to identify environmental concerns, make changes, and solve problems. The ultimate goal of Lessons on the Lake is that, in addition to learning about the watershed, students will also acquire a strong sense of stewardship.

back to Bottom Sediments in Lake Pontchartrain Basin

Table of Contents
Introduction
 
Editors, Authors & Contributors
 
1. Pontchartrain Basin: A Watershed
2. Why Worry About Wetlands?
3. The Magic of the Estuary
4. Rollin' Down the River: Riverine Systems
5. Liquid Assets: Our Water Resources
6. Natural Resources of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin
7. Ecosystems in Delicate Balance:
Threatened, Endangered, and Introduced Species of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin
8. The Forces are with Us: Natural Forces Affecting the Basin
9. Resource Management:
Land Use in and Arond the Lake Pontchartrain Basin
10. Moments in Time:
Exploring the History of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin
11. Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation: Field Trip Guide
12. Environmental Education in Cyberspace:
Internet Resources for Teachers and Students
 
Appendix: How to Use the Maps and Overlays

Note: Many of the illustrations and charts on this site can be clicked to bring up a separate, larger view suitable for printing out. Some of these larger views will appear sideways on the screen--this is so they will print out properly on 8.5"x11" paper. Be aware that some of the files for these views are very large and will take some time to download.


©1998 Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation

Lessons on the Lake is published by the
Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation
Metairie, LA

back to Bottom Sediments in Lake Pontchartrain Basin

[an error occurred while processing this directive]