🌊 Explore Watershed Dynamics & Flooding: A Hands-On Workshop in Ruston, LA
Curious about how water moves through our environment—and how land use and weather shape flooding? Join us for a full-day, interactive workshop on Saturday, September 27, where science meets the outdoors in a deep dive into watershed dynamics.
📍 Where & When
- Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Location: Reese Hall 219, Louisiana Tech University & Shepherd Creek, Ruston, LA
We’ll kick off the morning at Reese Hall (1201 Reese Dr., just south of W. California Ave on LaTech’s South Campus), where Dr. Bill Patterson—Associate Professor of Forest Soils and Watershed Management at Lousiana Tech—will guide us through the fundamentals of the hydrologic cycle. Expect engaging discussions on precipitation, infiltration, groundwater flow, storm runoff, and how human activity influences flooding.
🥪 Midday Caravan & Lunch
Around 11:30 a.m., we’ll caravan to our field site at Shepherd Creek. Bring your lunch and plenty of water—there won’t be food provided, but there will be time to eat and recharge before we dive into hands-on exploration.
🧪 Fieldwork at Shepherd Creek
Starting at 12:30 p.m., we’ll roll up our sleeves (or waders!) to take water quality measurements and observe stream dynamics in action. Not keen on wading in? No problem—you can stay dry and use dip nets or simply explore the rich plant and animal life along the stream banks.
🌤️ Weather & What to Bring
The forecast looks promising: partly cloudy, high of 88°F, and no rain. Be sure to bring:
- Chest waders or rubber boots (if you want to get in the stream)
- Lunch and drinking water
- Curiosity and a sense of adventure
Whether you’re a student, educator, or just someone who loves learning outdoors, this workshop offers a unique chance to connect theory with practice—and to see firsthand how water shapes the land we live on.
We hope to see you there!
Louisiana Master Naturalists - Northeast 