DOCENTS Docents are key to the success of the Eastern Sierra Watershed Progect, providing support that allows middle school students to work in small groups as they are introduced to hands-on science activities. Before working with students, the docents receive instruction in teaching techniques, scientific process, and specific training for the science activities they will later present to students in the field or classroom. This informal education program introduces adult docents to scientific inquiry and assessment-based learning, scientific monitoring methods for the student field program, history of the Lower Owens River Project, and classroom management skills. From the beginning, our collaborators insisted on small group experiences, as we implement the watershed program it became clear why they felt the small group exercises were a key component to the success of the program. After conducting field monitoring, students reported that working in a small group exercises was much more interesting. Teachers repeatedly commented that a wider range of students engaged in the small group field activities, than in larger classroom exercises. Teachers have also observed that the quality of their students' field experiences contributed to their own engagement in professional development. The program design meets dual goals of providing real-world, hands-on learning experiences for middle school students working in small groups and involvement of community members in field and classroom science programs. Docents meeting basic requirements are eligible for a stipend, supported by grants and donations, which cover their costs including taking time off from work and obtaining childcare.