Agricultural Sciences

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Educators who want to introduce children to the science of stream health while empowering them to become young environmental stewards in their own communities can purchase a copy of the Penn State Extension publication, “Brooke Meets a Stream Doctor,” which now includes a free 360-degree stream video resource.

Written at a fourth-grade reading level, each chapter invites children to get outdoors and explore a stream in their own neighborhood. Sections titled “It's Your Turn” allow them to do the same hands-on activities as Brooke and her classmates. Junior scientists can record observations on “My Stream Health Chart” right in the book.

And now, with every book purchase, learners will receive free access to an interactive 360-degree stream video that brings stream exploration into the classroom, according to author and real-life stream doctor Jennifer Fetter, who leads the Penn State Extension water resources team. She also serves as the director of the Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training.

“As students move through the experience, they can practice visual stream assessment skills by observing stream features, habitat conditions, water movement and indicators of stream health, just like a real stream doctor,” Fetter said. “We’ve had such positive feedback about the book and believe its impact will be even greater with the addition of the video.”

The goal of the video is to allow youth to explore a stream to prepare for a real-life visit or when getting out to a real stream may not be possible. For even deeper immersion, the experience also can be viewed using virtual reality headsets when available, she added.

“Brooke Meets a Stream Doctor” is available for order online for $18. Bulk pricing also is available.