KISTERS partners with unique floating classroom to sustain nature-based learning for youth.

San Antonio, Tx – Privately-owned environmental technology company KISTERS extends its Future Guardians global youth initiative, teaming with Wilderness Inquiry to bring the beloved Canoemobile program back to the Cosumnes River Preserve, managed by a unique partnership of public agencies and nonprofit organizations.

The sponsorship ensured that students retained direct access to transformative, hands-on lessons in natural science, geography and local history. The event marked the tour's sole California stop for 2026, bringing classroom curriculum and personal development opportunities to hundreds of students.

Courtney Brazil, an assistant principal with Marcum-Illinois Union Elementary School District, noted the program's impact on student engagement. "If you know seventh grade, you know it can be difficult to get them to think anything is cool — but they had some great takeaways!" She further reflected, "This is an annual favorite for our school community. The program is so well run. After hearing about cuts to available grant funding, it is even more incredible this program was able to continue this year."

Onshore interactive lessons were led by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service biologists, regional and local volunteers. Students learned to use a compass and to detect diversity in waterfowl. They participated in native seed planting and fly casting.

Support from KISTERS also brought a new partner to the waterway. Dedicated time for adult clients of the County of Sacramento’s Therapeutic Recreational Services were beneficiaries of Wilderness Inquiry’s accessibility services and belief that “Everybody belongs in the outdoors.”

"A brief paddle can spark a passion which can become a career," said Becca Emery, Marketing Manager for KISTERS North America. "Water touches everyone, and Canoemobile teaches that everyone has a part in water management and sustainability."

The Future Guardians global sponsorship initiative reflects KISTERS’ core mission to equip the next generation with tools and data required to address pressing environmental issues. The first partnership was in Sydney, Australia, establishing the Cadets Program. Whether young people navigate surf or paddle tranquil waters, these experiences provide them with opportunities to develop skills necessary to lead and manage the world they will inherit.

Help KISTERS and our partners raise more future guardians.

Since 1978, the non-profit Wilderness Inquiry has been connecting people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to the natural world through shared outdoor experiences. Its programs focus on integration, education, employment, health and wellness, with inclusivity and access to the outdoors for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

Est. in 1963, privately-held KISTERS specializes in development of software & instrumentation to overcome challenges of monitoring water, weather and the environment. Its customers are equipped with reliable & scalable technology that reveals data-driven insights, enabling them to make informed decisions for the responsible and sustainable management of natural resources.