Planning a Bosque Field Trip

Successful field trips to the Rio Grande bosque depend on pre-planning.

Make reservations with agency to be visited for field trip.
Complete individual or school or district permission forms for field trip.
Arrange transportation Give informational letters to parents -include list of items for students to bring and an overview of the trip.
Make a pre-visit to the site of field trip to be familiar with the area and to prepare student activities.
Prepare Bosque Education Guide activities.
Discuss with agency contact the purpose of field trip.
Clear lunch or snack plans with host agency.

Children should be clearly labeled with first name, school name and telephone number.
Dress for the weather. Winter weather requires a water bottle and, as a minimum, a jacket; hat and gloves are recommended. Summer weather requires sunscreen, hat, water bottle and insect repellent. Long pants and sleeves protest against bosque shrubs; however, students should remain on trail away from these hazards. All Seasons Shoes should be sneakers or boots. Sandals are not appropriate for trail walking.
No snacks or lunches should be taken into the bosque.Wild animal diets don't include Twinkies, Cheetos, paper or straws.
Educators should have the paperwork required by their school for field trips, including emergency contact numbers, in their possession.
Students need to understand they are visiting another creature's home and should treat it with respect.
Water should be available in any season.
Journals, clipboards, paper, pencils, colored pencils, bingo cards or sc
avenger hunt lists can be brought. All should be secured in backpacks or other devices so they are not dropped and become more trail litter.
Bring a litter bag.
Bring camera and binoculars.
Bring a first-aid kit, but know your school's rules on liability.