River Teachers: Conasauga River Snorkel
Thursday, July 11
8:15 AM - 4:30 PM

K-12 School Teachers, join us for this fun workshop! River snorkeling is an excellent way to showcase the high biodiversity of the Southeast. In addition to snorkeling, we will provide a lesson plan to accompany this exciting field trip opportunity.

The streams on the Cherokee National Forest have an extraordinarily diverse assemblage of fish. In the clear waters of the snorkeling sites, it is typical to see 15 to 20 species of fish on any given day. Freshwater drum as large as 6 pounds swim in schools in the deep pools; sporting fish, such as bass and bream, are seen in their natural habitats. Colorful darters and shiners may be seen spawning and feeding. Several thousand fish will be present on any given day. The experience is like swimming in an aquarium full of fish. Turtles, tadpoles and salamanders are also usually present in the snorkeling hole.

Each person should bring their own swim suit, shoes (sandals should have heel straps), towel, and drinking water. Changing tents are set up for your privacy. The Forest Service provides masks, snorkels, wetsuits, a professional guide familiar with the local fauna, and an assistant who takes care of equipment, ensures safety, and aids first time snorkelers in getting comfortable in the water.

Lunch will be provided!