CLEAN Environmental Education

The Cahaba River is one of the most biologically diverse rivers in North America and provides drinking water for more than 20% of Alabamians. 

The Shane Hulsey CLEAN (Conservation Leadership through Educational Activities in Nature) Environmental Education Program provides hands-on environmental education activities for students from third grade through college, and for groups of all ages wanting to learn about the river and its impact on our communities.

The Shane Hulsey CLEAN Environmental Education Program is dedicated to continuing the legacy of Shane Harper Hulsey. 

Learn about the Cahaba River through:

• Stream walks
• Guided canoe trips
• Presentations
• Our online resource library

Educational Programs in the River and Classroom

CLEAN programs connect people with nature, teach the science that underpins water stewardship, and open doors to environmental and science careers for students from all backgrounds. 

Are you a teacher who’s already scheduled an activity at the Cahaba River for your class? 

Visit our Field Trip Planning Checklist and our Field Trip FAQs for everything you need to prepare your class for a successful trip.

CLEAN Stream Walks

Stream walks are the best hands-on, feet-in-the-water educational experience for students from 3rd grade and up. 

CLEAN Canoe Trips

Experience the Cahaba River and learn about what makes it unique from a canoe. Available for students from 6th grade and up. 

Classroom CLEAN

Cahaba River Society can bring CLEAN educational programming to your classroom when weather or circumstances make visiting the river difficult. 

Learn more about our student programs or book a trip for your class today.

Online Learning Library

Visit our online learning library for educational materials, resources, and videos. 

Adult Groups and Activities

Adult groups and organizations can plan educational events and trips to the river. Learn more about group activities for adults, or fill out this form to schedule an activity for your team. 

CLEAN Program Staff

La’Tanya Scott, Education Director

La’Tanya Scott leads the Shane Hulsey CLEAN Environmental Education Program. She previously served as Cahaba River Society Environmental Science Educator since April 2014, delivering hands-on environmental education programs to students in the classroom and the field where she leads stream walks and guided canoe trips.

Get to Know La’Tanya

Nicole Junkin, Environmental Science Educator

Nicole Junkin began her journey with CRS in September 2023 as an Environmental Education Assistant within the CLEAN program. Her passion for education and the environment has already left an indelible mark on students and educators alike.

Get to Know Nicole

Wil Rainer, Field Program Director

Wil Rainer is Cahaba River Society’s Field Programs Director. He leads, plans, and implements river restoration projects for our Volunteer Mobilization program and leads CLEAN Environmental Education guided canoe trips.

Get to Know Wil