The federal government has awarded a $99,660 grant to Friends of the Los Angeles River to help improve the watershed. (photo by Edwin Folven)

Friends of the Los Angeles River has received a grant of $99,660 from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to support the “L.A. River Rover” and “Source to Sea” watershed education programs.

The “L.A. River Rover,” a 38-foot mobile visitor and education center, reaches 10,000 people annually at community events, fairs and other large public gatherings. In 2014, the rover was designated as one of 14 Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnerships in the country. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has provided $820,000 in grant support over the last five years.

Each year, thousands of students in grades 3-12 learn about the river’s past, present and potential future through the “Source to Sea” watershed education program. The curriculum is California standards-based and supports Next Generation Science Standards, with an emphasis on how to think like scientists.

“Our partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service ensures that thousands of community members of all ages in Los Angeles County learn about and experience the river,” said Friends of the Los Angeles River Executive Director Marissa Christianson.  “Through in-class lessons, hands-on L.A. River Rover activities and an L.A. River field trip, students realize that nature is all around them and they are a part of nature. Connecting with and caring about the River is a life-changing experience.”

“We’re delighted to continue working with Friends of the L.A. River to engage communities around nature close to home,” said Angie Horn, regional refuge partnership specialist with the National Wildlife Refuge Association. “Whether it’s a rover visit, bat count or a cleanup, people leave with a new perspective on the river and urban nature.”

In addition to support from the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service, Friends of the Los Angeles River has secured funding from the California State Coastal Conservancy through its “Explore the Coast” program. Students from five schools will also visit the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Golden Shore Wetland.

For information, visit folar.gov.