The Mill River Wetland Committee, Inc. is an award winning nonprofit organization founded in 1967 to strengthen environmental science education through the study of river basin systems.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, MRWC promoted purchase of open space along the Mill River in Fairfield, Connecticut, and took a leading role in the defense of endangered wetlands. Concern for our environmental future prompted the launching of River-Lab, a unique hands-on program of environmental science study for grades 3-6 in all public schools in Fairfield. All elements of the program have been adopted as part of the science curriculum.
In consultation with educators and environmental experts, River-Lab provides classroom materials and activities for students, extensive training for study-trip guides, and professional development for teachers. At each grade level, classroom training is enhanced by study-trips to the Mill River and town estuaries. Each year, more than 400 volunteers guide approximately 3,300 children through more than 650 study-trips.
