Headwaters Science Institute

Home
United States
Soda Springs, CA
Headwaters Science Institute

We are a science education non-profit specializing in creating engaging scientific research programs

Our programs create opportunities for students to make their own scientific inquiries and pursue answers through authentic field experiences. We make use of an inspiring and engaging field setting to give students a hands-on scientific experience. Students participate in everything from developing questions and experiments to analyzing evidence, to collecting data as part of long-term studies, to

identifying the role of history in ecology. We aim to provide memorable, meaningful experiences that have lasting impacts on students beyond the programs themselves. Our goal is that this empowers students to think critically, to feel ownership of their learning, to feel engaged with science, and to open doors for students who believe that science is too boring or intimidating to consider careers in science. As an organization, we are committed to providing these experiences and understandings, not just to those who can afford these trips, but to all students, We hope to show students that science does not just happen in a lab and is not only done by people holding advanced degrees; it is fun, exciting, and omnipresent.

06/23/2026

A Summer of Science Speakers!

We’re bringing science to life this summer with special guest speakers sharing their expertise, research, and passion for the natural world! Join us for exciting conversations exploring Lake Tahoe’s ecosystems, from water and wildflowers to wildlife and sharks.

July 14 | Shark Awareness Day: Lunch with a Scientist Live
Dive into shark science with Dr. Yannis Papastamatiou during this online event at 5:30 PM PST.
https://givebutter.com/lunch-with-a-scientist-live-featuring-yannis-Papastamatiou-yoxjhm

July 24 | Water Week
Join Michael from UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center (TERC) to learn about Lake Tahoe science and the research protecting our region’s water resources.
Serene Lakes Lot 1 Beach | 3:30–4:15 PM

July 30 | Plants & Wildflowers Week
Explore the fascinating world of local plants and wildflowers with Eric and discover their role in Tahoe’s ecosystems.
Serene Lakes Lot 1 Beach | 3:30–4:15 PM

August 7 | Animals & Insects Week
Learn about Tahoe wildlife, bear ecology, and conservation with Alexia from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Serene Lakes Lot 1 Beach | 3:30–4:15 PM

Science is everywhere come get curious with us this summer!

06/12/2026

Join Headwaters Science Institute for a special Shark Awareness Day (July 14th) presentation featuring Dr. Yannis Papastamatiou, a leading shark researcher. Dr. Papastamatiou will share insights from his research and explain why these apex predators are so important to our planet.

Following the presentation, there will be a Q&A session where attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about sharks and shark conservation.

We hope you'll join us for this fascinating and educational event!
https://givebutter.com/lunch-with-a-scientist-live-featuring-yannis-Papastamatiou-yoxjhm

Yannis Papastamatiou has studied the biology of sharks and other predatory fishes for 25 years, and published nearly 150 scientific articles in these topic areas. Papastamatiou is an Associate Professor at Florida International University (FIU) where he is currently studying the physiological and behavioral ecology of marine predators. He co-leads the Predator Ecology and Conservation lab at the university. Papastamatiou has experience in all forms of telemetry--including acoustic, satellite and data-loggers--and has used his expertise to study the behavior and physiology of sharks around the world. He has used stable isotopes to supplement his research on shark ecology and published the first paper combining telemetry and stable isotopes for any species of shark. Papastamatiou has over 2,000 dives and is certified in most forms of scientific and technical diving (e.g. mixed gases, closed circuit rebreathers). He is interested in the ecology of mesophotic reefs and in the use of technical diving for underwater exploration. Papastamatiou, has been the recipient of two National Geographic CRE grants, both of which were successfully completed and resulted in 5 scientific publications, with an additional manuscript to be published in the future.

06/08/2026

This World Ocean Day, we're taking a moment to highlight the importance of protecting the ecosystems that make our blue planet so extraordinary.

At Headwaters Science Institute, we care deeply about inspiring the next generation to understand, appreciate, and care for the natural world. We live for moments like this recent field trip to Santa Cruz, where students from Huntington Beach High School got to experience the joy of tidepooling.

They explored the shoreline, marveled at the unique sea creatures tucked away in every tidepool, and ultimately gained a deeper appreciation for the ocean and its incredible biodiversity.

Environmental stewardship is a community effort. That's why we're proud to partner with Stream2Sea, a company that shares our belief that protecting our planet starts with everyday actions.

Stream2Sea makes science-backed products like Reef Safer™ sunscreen and plant-derived hair and body care, formulated to be safer for aquatic life. That means you can swim, play, and enjoy nature for longer while reducing the environmental impact of your outdoor adventures!

You can use the link in our bio for 20% off Stream2Sea’s consciously made products. A portion of every purchase supports Headwaters Science Institute, helping fund hands-on science programs for the next generation of environmental stewards.

Together, we're turning curiosity into action and action into lasting change!

06/04/2026

Headwaters is proud to be participating in our local community cleanups this weekend, and we challenge you to join us by helping clean up your own neighborhood, trail, park, or favorite outdoor space!

As a thank you, anyone who sends us a photo of themselves cleaning up their local area will receive a FREE Headwaters hat! Just snap a photo and tag us or send it our way.

This Saturday, June 6, there are two fantastic volunteer opportunities for our Tahoe/Truckee community:

**Donner Summit Community Cleanup**
9am–12pm
Advance sign-ups are recommended, but walk-ups are welcome. Meet at the Soda Springs General Store at 9am for area assignments and waivers.

**23rd Annual Truckee Day**
Neighborhood Cleanup: 9am–12pm
Community Celebration: 12pm–2pm at Regional Park
Advance registration is required. Visit KeepTruckeeGreen.org/TruckeeDay to sign up for your neighborhood cleanup.

Whether you join one of these organized events or simply spend some time cleaning up your own local area, we'd love to see it. Send us a photo of your cleanup efforts, and we'll send you a Headwaters hat as a thank you for helping keep our communities beautiful!

05/29/2026

Thanks to a generous grant from Santa Clara Valley Water District, we had the opportunity to work with 57 of Ms. Rader’s freshman biology students during a three-week, hands-on environmental science research experience.

Students designed their own research projects focused on soil, plants, insects, water quality, and human impact while conducting real field research at the creek behind campus. Alongside Headwaters scientists, they collected data, analyzed results using DataClassroom, and presented their findings to their classmates like true scientists!

The program wrapped up with a creek and campus litter cleanup where students connected their observations to discussions about environmental stewardship and human impact on local ecosystems.

We are so proud of the curiosity, teamwork, and enthusiasm these students brought to every step of the process. Thank you to Prospect High School, Ms. Rader, and Santa Clara Valley Water District for making this experience possible!

05/28/2026

We completed a hands-on research experience with 9th grade biology students at LPS Oakland.

Students began in the classroom learning the scientific method, developing research questions, and designing studies around topics including plants, insects, soil, water quality, and human impact. They then conducted fieldwork in the Marin Headlands, collecting ecological data and observing local wildlife.

Back in the classroom, students analyzed their data using DataClassroom, created graphs, and presented their findings, sharing their research process and conclusions with the class. Thank you to Synopsys for the support!

05/14/2026

We had an incredible 3-day, 2-night program with 19 students from Cal Middle School at Clair Tappaan Lodge!

Students dove into hands-on, student-driven research, exploring topics like soil moisture and insect populations, water flow and plant diversity, and water quality across different environments. Their curiosity, teamwork, and excitement for science made this group such a joy to work with.

Beyond the science, students connected with nature through a scavenger hunt bingo and an Andy Goldsworthy-inspired nature art activity, bringing creativity and play into their experience.

Thank you to the Negley Flinn Foundation and the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation for helping make this program possible!

05/08/2026

We’re 42% of the way to our Big Day of Giving goal, with just 6 hours left to support life-changing science programs for local students.

At Headwaters Science Institute, the majority of our programs are funded through donations and grants. Community support is what makes it possible for students to conduct real scientific research, explore the natural world firsthand, and discover new confidence in STEM.

Your support helps fund our summer camps, school science programs, and virtual Research Experience program —, creating opportunities for students to work alongside scientists, collect real-world data, and engage in meaningful hands-on science learning.

Because of supporters like you, students don’t just learn about science — they do science.

With only hours left, every gift helps expand access to hands-on science education and create more opportunities for students to connect with nature, research, and discovery.

Donate now: https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/organization/Headwaters

Address

Soda Springs, CA
95728

Telephone

+15304263063

Website

http://headwatersscienceinstitute.org/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Headwaters Science Institute posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Headwaters Science Institute:

Shortcuts

Want your organization to be the top-listed Non Profit Organization in Soda Springs?