Students from Bridgeport Elementary School in the Upper Merion School District enjoyed a field trip to Riverbend Environmental Education Center in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 31, courtesy of ASTM International.

A total of four classes with approximately 85 students had the chance to explore the trails and streams at Riverbend as part of a habitat lesson. Activities included bird watching, visiting with live animals and rolling logs.

Approximately 45% of the 8,500 students who visit Riverbend each year come from urban areas that have limited access to natural spaces. The number of visits has increased more than 300% in recent years, thanks to donations from local organizations like ASTM, an annual contributor.

ASTM actively supports many charitable causes in the Montgomery County and Philadelphia area, including youth education, senior groups and local fire, traffic and safety personnel. Visit www.astm.org/ABOUT/local_community to learn more.

Bridgeport Elementary students pose with ASTM’s Barbara Schindler, Director of Corporate Communications, in front of the “Insect Hotel.” A new addition to Riverbend, the structure was designed by Riverbend’s Volunteer Coordinator Jeanne Angell, and is a shelter for insects like bees, spiders, ladybugs and moths.

Release #9711