The Brandywine and Red Clay Valley Associations are pleased to offer a broad selection of environmental education programs for groups. Most of our programs are held at the Myrick Conservation Center, 6 miles west of West Chester and 3 miles east of Unionville. The Myrick Center is a 318- acre preserve that contains a model conservation farm and organic vegetable garden and greenhouse, as well as forest, field, pond and stream habitats. We look forward to seeing you and your class at the Myrick Center.

The Programs

Designed for students with a wide range of exposure to the outdoors, BVA/RCVA provide in-the-field instruction to supplement school curriculum on a variety of environmental education subjects. The programs are designed in a progression so that, as your students' knowledge and capabilities increase, so does the sophistication of the concepts covered. Programs are generally held at the Myrick Center. For customized programs, contact BVA/RCVA for more information.

We are happy to offer many of our programs at our new Saalbach Farm facility which is located just outside of downtown Coatesville. Ask for details!

Activities are held outdoors except where noted. You will be contacted the day of your program if inclement weather is forecasted. Children and adults should dress for the weather and wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Programs DO run in the rain. Boots or a change of shoes are highly recommended as the ground is often wet from rain or dew. In the case of severe weather conditions, you may try to reschedule the program. Please realize, however, that we may not be able to accommodate schedule changes if the season is booked. In this case, a refund may be requested.

A limited number of picnic tables are available for groups. Unlimited space is available for groups not requiring tables (bring blankets or a towel to sit on). All lunch arrangements must be made at the time of program registration. 
ALL GROUPS MUST CARRY OUT THEIR OWN TRASH.

Small groups are essential to ensure that students receive the full benefits of our programs, which use exploratory teaching methods and hands-on activities. For this reason, classes are broken down into groups of no more than 15 students per Environmental Instructor.

FULL PAYMENT is required at least two weeks in advance of the program. After making the reservation, you will receive a program confirmation (see sample on next page) in the mail along with program-specific suggestions. You will also receive a reminder approximately two weeks before your scheduled program.

General Rules

§ Divide students into number of groups indicated on confirmation sheet. Please separate difficult students into various groups to help alleviate discipline problems. Ensure that groups have similar numbers of boys and girls.

§ Provide a nametag for each student.

§ Assign one teacher or adult per group. To create a positive learning experience for your students do not answer questions but please feel free to participate in activities.

§ Dress appropriately for the weather. We recommend long pants for all seasons to protect against poison ivy and brambles. Wear old sneakers and bring layers. Programs WILL run in the rain. Students should bring raingear if rain is forecasted for the day.

§ Have students apply sunscreen (and bug spray if necessary) prior to your arrival.

§ Cameras, binoculars, umbrellas and snacks are not to be carried on the trails by students. Teachers are asked to check with their Environmental Instructor prior to taking pictures in order to avoid distractions during the program.

§ Water bottles are permitted on the trails on hot days.

§ Instructors should be informed of students with special needs. Students allergic to bees should have their antihistamine with them at all times. Our staff is not allowed to administer medication of any kind.

§ Remind students to be respectful of the Environmental Instructors. Students will need to be good listeners and take turns.

§ Please be on time. Environmental Instructors have a full program planned for your visit and we do not want your students to miss anything. If you arrive late, your program cannot be extended.

§ Photocopy "My Field Trip Checklist" for your students. It will be on the back of the "Teacher’s Checklist" that will be mailed to you with your confirmation form. Preparation is the key to a great experience for everyone.

We have many volunteer activities including helping with special events, general office help, mailings, gardening, trail maintenance and much more.
Please call 610-793-1090 or check our websites for more information.

Summer Music Series (Free) Thursdays in July & August 7:30PM

BVA Annual Meeting Thursday, October 20, 2005

RCVA Bird Seed Sale Saturday, October 29, 2005

Holiday Open House Friday, December 9, 2005

Red Clay Valley Clean-up Saturday, March 25, 2006

Brandywine Hills Point to Point Sunday, April 2, 2006

Brandywine Creek Clean-up Saturday, April 29, 2006

RCVA Annual Meeting April 2006

RCVA Trout Rodeo Saturday, May 6, 2006

The Brandywine and Red Clay Valley Associations have a combined experience of over 110 years in promoting projects that conserve our natural resources. In the Brandywine Valley these projects have resulted in Marsh Creek Reservoir, Struble Lake and Chambers Lake in Hibernia Park. The Red Clay Valley has seen projects, such as the Red Clay Creek Cleanup, spray irrigation systems, a stream corridor and greenway program, and the Red Clay Trail.

BVA and RCVA's offices are located at the Myrick Conservation Center, a 318-acre property and site of year-round education programs. BVA and RCVA education programs, both on-site and at school sites, reached approximately 16,000 student contacts in 2004.

BVA and RCVA are nonprofit, member-supported, conservation organizations.