Master Naturalist Jen Hunsinger will offer a special Firefly Walk program the evenings of July 2 and 3, 2026, to a limited audience. 

Participants are encouraged to meet at 8 p.m. at the preserve's Visitor Center parking lot, and then, after a brief discussion, will take a short hike along a portion of the Wildlife Management Trail to observe fireflies and talk more about these fascinating creatures. 

Participants are reminded to dress appropriately for being outdoors in early July, being mindful of ticks, mosquitoes and other concerns. If you have a red flashlight, please bring it along.

The event is designed to minimize any negative impact on the species or its ecosystem and will include an overview on the firefly's status and some of the negative impacts the species faces. The program is expected to last until 9 p.m. (one hour) 

To register, please fill out the form below. 

NOTE: Registration for Habitat Helpers 2026 sessions is now full. If we get any last-minute changes and something opens up, we will share that here.

Habitat Helpers, an annual preschool-focused day camp program for children ages 4-6, is scheduled for June 3, 4, 10 and 11, 2026, at the Montour Preserve (374 Preserve Road, Danville, PA). Each program day will run from 10 a.m. to noon. Registration is open, but spaces are limited. 

Each program date is focused on a different habitat, and all activities, hands-on programming, take-home projects and even snack tie in with the themed habitat of the day. 

The program is free, but donations are encouraged to help offset cost of materials and to help future programs. Spaces for each day are limited and are expected to max-out and will be filled on a first-registered, first-filled basis with an overflow list used for any cancelations. 

Parents/guardians will be contacted via email prior to the program day with details about the program day and what to bring, etc. Questions about the program can be sent directly by clicking this link

Any additional registrations in the form below will be added to a wait list and only contacted if a spot opens for the program this summer ...

NOTE: Registration for Camp Chillisquaque 2026 sessions is now full. If we get any last-minute changes and something opens up, we will share that here.

The annual Camp Chillisquaque day camp experience for children ages 7-12 returns to the Montour Preserve via the Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership with a new theme of giving a "Voice to the Vulnerable" during the summer of 2026. 

Participants for this free program, scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each of five days in early July, will be learning about various sensitive wildlife species that are endangered, threatened or otherwise dwindling in numbers and what factors are impacting their numbers. 

Students will be looking at trends behind those changes and what things can be done to possibly turn things around. The camp experience will include opportunities for hands-on experiments, research and conservation as well as learning to advocate for others. 

This is a one-day camp, with each of the five day programs bringing in a different group of students with a limited number of openings each day. Dates are set for July 1, 2, 8, 9 and 15. Students should pack a lunch, an extra set of clothing and be prepared to get wet as some of the in-field work will involve engaging with waterways on the property. Each participant should also bring his/her own sunscreen and reuseable water bottle. 

The program will be held entirely at the Montour Preserve, 374 Preserve Road, Danville, PA. 

Registration is full for this event. Any new applicants in the form below will be added to a waitlist and only contacted if a spot opens up.

If you have any questions, please send us an email or call/text 570-768-6300.

Our popular weekly preschooler/family program Read & Explore will be moving to 1 p.m. Wednesdays for the remainder of the school year (through the end of May). 

This will start March 4 as the group reads the book "Bear Snores On" by Karma Wilson. Hands-on exploration will focus on how animals sleep and the differences between sleep and hibernation. 

While registration is not required, it can be helpful for planning purposes.

Join us at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, March 13, at the Montour Preserve’s Education Center for a special movie presentation of Michael Kinney’s award-winning documentary, “Old River”

The film was recorded during Kinney’s 24-day, 228-mile paddling trip across the entire West Branch of the Susquehanna River. It includes the fascinating story behind the trip, many key sights and sounds along the way and covers a wide variety of river issues. ​

​The event is free to the public and popcorn is included. Registration is required and can be completed at the form below.

​More than 300 people braved minus-20-degree windchills and numerous roadways impacted by snowdrifts and limited visibility due to blowing snow to attend the Third Annual Environmental Education Expo at the Montour Preserve on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026.

“It was great to see so many families brave the cold temperatures and wind. I thought the cold weather might keep people home,” said Renee Carey, director of the Northcentral PA Conservancy, one of 25 different groups that manned hands-on, interactive activities for families who attended the show.

“I had kids as young as 3 and as old as 19 play the game we brought. I think they all got something out of it, and enjoyed being a bird and trying to find food they could eat with their beak,” she said. “I really like the family focus of the event and the hands-on activities. I think the kids and their adults both enjoy learning and exploring.”

The event, hosted by the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association and its educational offshoot, the Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership, had 28 groups registered for tabling, but weather conditions and illness impacted those numbers somewhat.

“We lost a few right before the event, which is to be expected considering the circumstances, however, we still had people coming in early in the morning from as far away as the Poconos, the New Jersey border, Wilkes-Barre and Lancaster to set up tables and engage with families, and their dedication is incredibly appreciated,” said Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky. “With any sort of event like this, it takes many different people and groups coming together with a common cause to make it a success, and we definitely had that today.”

The groups that were able to attend included, in no particular order, the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association and Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership, Montour Area Recreation Commission, Columbia-Montour Visitor Bureau, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, United Way/DegenSTEAM Foundation, Susquehanna University’s Center for Environmental Education and Research, Pennsylvania Master Naturalists, Central PA Rock and Mineral Club and Geology Club, Bloomsburg Children’s Museum, PA Fish and Boat Commission, Bloomsburg University paleontologist Dr. Jen Peteya, Bloomsburg University TriBeta Chapter, Pheasants and Quail Forever, Friends of RB Winter State Park, Good Morning Susquehanna and Walk with Me author Alyssa Maddalena, Sea Scout Ship 2323, Northcentral PA Conservancy, PA Association of Environmental Educators, Citizen’s Climate Lobby, Seven Mountains Audubon, Shamokin High School Environmental club, Wild Trout Man, Rider Park and the River Valley Nature School.

“The event was really well organized and was meaningful for younger children, teens and adults.  I took two of my grandkids, ages 12 and 14. They were skeptical before we got there. We ended up participating in all of the activities,” said Sherry Miller, of Hughesville. “They were able to use their creativity, think about the environment, and be awed by nature. Thank you so much! They now look forward to their next adventure at Montour Preserve!”

That is a big reason for the show, admitted Zaktansky.

“We want to intentionally get people to check out the Montour Preserve and all this incredible resource has to offer,” he said. “We want people to support the efforts that keep places like the Montour Preserve open, like the hard work done by the staff of the Montour Area Recreation Commission. We need more help and assistance both financially and in volunteers and coming out to this show illustrates the reasons why people should get involved and helps spark action, as well as gives them a rundown of upcoming additional events to enjoy, such as the upcoming Maple Sugaring event on Feb. 28.”

For Rachel Shingler, of Millville, the event was perfect for her three young children.

“They especially loved making the bird calls at the Audubon bird table. They wore and played with them the rest of the day,” she said. “My oldest (age 8, Calvin) told me that he loved all of the fossils that he was able to bring home. My second (age 6, William) said he liked fishing in the mini pool for the winner fish. Thank you for a fun and educational experience!”

However, the expo was geared for all ages.

“We are both in our 70s and it was nice to get out during this prolonged cold weather. I enjoyed the various exhibits and informative displays and both my husband and I like watching the birds at the feeders the best,” said Patricia Swanson, of Danville. “The blowing and drifting snow was something we don't see here much but it does remind me of my childhood in the Poconos. I've been coming to the Montour Preserve a long time since I have lived in this area for almost 54 years. Looking forward to the next events.”

The expo added an ice fishing demonstration at 1 p.m., with Chris Feese and Kenny Young having an ice fishing hut set up about 75 yards offshore of Lake Chillisquaque for people to come out and check, learn about vital tips for safety when on the ice and to check out gear they use.

Several families ventured out onto the ice despite the windchills and checked out their display, learned the ice was about 9.5 inches at that location and experienced the various safety gear and safeguards that Feese and Young use when out on a frozen lake, whether it is in Pennsylvania, Michigan or beyond.

“One thing is we don’t ever use alcohol. It thins your blood, makes you colder and you have to drive home afterward,” Feese said. “Our cooler has bottled water and crackers. You have to think smart out here if you want to be successful and have fun.”

The expo also featured a ticket auction, where people purchased sheets of tickets for $5 each and then placed tickets in bags corresponding with more than 50 prizes ranging from an inflatable kayak and “smart” bird feeder with camera to fishing lures, educational materials, games, books, survival gear and other items donated by numerous local individuals, groups and businesses. All proceeds go directly back into educational programs and resources at the Montour Preserve.

“Despite the harsh weather conditions people showed up, which shows how much it means to people having this event. It was a great turnout,” said Doug Fessler, representing both the United Way and DegenSTEAM Academy. “There were lots of great vendors there showing a lot of great things, for me showing how computer science and environmental science come together and how we can use technology for not only outreach but show people behind the scenes of nature, pulling back to curtain of the natural world.”

Among the many opportunities shared during the event, one of the main ones involved volunteers.

“With much of our programming, we want to bring it full-circle to a place of what people can do with the nudge they feel after an event like this. We have more events to come, including the super popular Maple Sugaring program that the Montour Area Recreation Commission is running Feb. 28,” said Zaktansky. “However, we definitely can use volunteers, not only to help with programs and educational opportunities, but also with conservation projects, helping monitor the local Chillisquaque watershed and more.”

Those interested in helping out as volunteers can do so by filling out the 2026 Susquehanna Survey online. Donations and sponsorships can be done at this link.

Due to the incoming storm, this event has been cancelled.  We will reschedule at a later date.

Women Reconnecting and Engaging with Nature, known as WREN, will hold its annual planning meeting at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, in the auditorium at Montour Preserve. The meeting is open to current participants and anyone interested in learning more about the group and helping shape the year ahead.

WREN is designed to bring women together through shared outdoor experiences that encourage skill building, confidence and connection with nature. The planning meeting will include a review of the past year, discussion of upcoming activities and opportunities for participants to share ideas for future outings and programs.

​“This meeting gives participants a chance to reflect on what they enjoyed most and help guide where WREN goes next,” said Marissa Crames, program supervisor for the Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership. “Our goal is to create welcoming, meaningful experiences that support learning, personal growth and a strong connection to the outdoors.”

Over the past year, WREN participants have taken part in a wide range of activities, from challenging adventures to more relaxed opportunities to unwind in nature. “The WREN group has engaged in a variety of outdoor activities during our monthly meetings,” said Shaina Davis, a WREN participant. “We’ve explored different locations in different seasons to experience the foliage and wildlife of several regions. Some outings were really challenging, while others were a chance to unwind and connect with nature. I’d recommend the WREN group for anyone seeking an adventure, wanting to try a new activity or learn an outdoor skill. I’m looking forward to the next year and what this group has to offer.”

For many participants, WREN has also become a meaningful way to build skills and share experiences across generations. “My daughter Petal and I have enjoyed being a part of WREN since its inception,” said Sarah Carro. “We’ve especially loved kayaking and camping, and the sense of capability it’s brought to our growing skill sets. We look forward to another fun year.”

Those interested in attending the planning meeting or learning more about WREN are encouraged to join the discussion on Jan. 25.  If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Marissa Crames directly by emailing vernalschool@gmail.com or calling 570-850-1166.

​Those planning to attend are asked to register by completing the form below.

Due to the incoming storm this event has been cancelled.  We will reschedule at a later date.

The Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership’s Aquatic Explorers Club will host its annual planning meeting at 4:30 p.m. January 25, in the auditorium of the Montour Preserve Environmental Education Center. Current members, as well as youth ages 10 to 13 who are interested in joining the club, are invited to attend.

As part of the Learning for Life program, the club is chartered by the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association and operates on an annual registration and calendar. Programming includes stream studies, fishing, educational programs and other hands-on activities that emphasize teamwork, leadership and environmental responsibility.

The planning meeting will focus on reviewing the past year, setting goals for the upcoming season, and discussing program ideas, activities and field experiences centered on natural science, conservation and experiential learning. The meeting is open to families interested in learning more about the club or considering participation.

“This planning meeting is a great opportunity for families to see what the Aquatic Explorers Club is all about and help shape the year ahead,” said Marissa Crames, program supervisor for the Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership. “Our goal is to give young people meaningful, hands-on experiences that build skills while fostering a strong connection to natural science and the environment.”

“This program is about having fun while learning by doing,” said Jayme Knouse, a parent of an Aquatic Explorers Club participant and a club leader. “We want kids to explore and ask questions.”

Those interested in natural science, outdoor exploration or conservation are encouraged to attend the Jan. 25 planning meeting to learn more and get involved.  For more information, contact Vernal School Program Supervisor Marissa Crames at vernalschool@gmail.com or 570-850-1166. Those planning to attend are asked to complete the registration form below.

The Montour Preserve will be hosting the third annual Environmental Education Expo from 9am to 2pm on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, as an ideal way to beat cabin fever with hands-on nature-based learning for all ages, according to Vernal School Program Supervisor Marissa Crames.

"The Environmental Education Expo offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn from local experts and explore activities designed for learners of all ages," she said. "Whether you are an educator, a family or just curious to learn more, the expo offers inspiration, resources and connections."

Previous events have brought hundreds of people to the Montour Preserve each February, giving the venue increased awareness a few weeks before its annual popular maple sugaring program, scheduled in 2026 for Feb. 28.

"Our Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership includes a wide assortment of state agencies, local universities, nonprofits, businesses and other groups, and this expo is the ideal place to showcase these partners and what they have to offer," said Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky. 

Some of the groups registered so far to have tables include the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association, Vernal School, Montour Area Recreation Commission, Columbia-Montour Visitor Bureau, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, Susquehanna University, Bloomsburg University, PA Master Naturalists, Central PA Geology Club, PA Game Commission, PA Fish and Boat Commission, Bloomsburg Children's Museum, PA Association of Environmental Educators, United Way and DegenSTEAM Foundation, Pheasants Forever. the River Valley Nature School and more.

​"There are a lot of outdoor shows across the region in late winter, but many of them are focused mostly on hunting and fishing. This event is designed for the whole family to learn and have fun together with interactive displays and booths that represent many of our incredible partners," he said. "It is a great way to not only get out of the house and do something different, but also learn what is new in the world of environmental education, gather info on events and programs for 2026 and start mapping out adventures and learning for the entire family."

Each table will offer a different hands-on activity for people of all ages to learn about science, nature and the world around them. Among the opportunities on tap for the day:

• Virtual reality tours of the Susquehanna River
• Fly-tying
• A maple-sugaring scavenger hunt
• Birding ID and bingo
• A dinosaur dig kit for kids
• Guided hikes and nature apps
• Birding environmental technology coding with Bird Song Hero game
• Interactive water runoff display
• Look-and-touch fossil experience
• Climate coding (where computers meet environmental science)
• Strawberry DNA extraction
• Beading, stained-glass art and other hands-on craft opportunities
• Seed butterflies 
• Pollinator pizza activity
• Build-a-macro experience
• Books
• Live turtles & other guests
• And much more

"We will also be giving out door prizes throughout the day, have some cool nature and education-based items up for a ticket auction, offer some homemade food items to keep people nourished and more," said Zaktansky. "It is an event you can come and spend the day at and hopefully walk away with plenty of info, resources and ideas for 2026 and beyond."

The ticket auction, run similar to the Chinese auction style, will include numerous items that have been donated for the event available during the day in which people can purchase tickets and then place them in bags that correspond with the items they are interested in. At 2 p.m., a winning ticket will be drawn for each item. Among the many items on our growing list of donations include: 

• A family of four pass to any Floating Classroom program this summer aboard the Hiawatha from the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association
• A pair of Zebco Dock Demon kids fishing rods from the Vernal School 
• A nature education basket from the River Valley Nature School
• Toy basket with free museum passes from the Bloomsburg Children's Museum
• Unique, rare rocks and crystals from Andrew Rockhound
• Two books (What's it Like to be A Bird and Pennsylvania's Birds) from the Seven Mountains Audubon Society
• Homemade Rider Park coffee mug from Rider Park
• Bag of eco-appropriate items from the Citizen's Climate Lobby
• Covered Bridge puzzles and other items from the Columbia-Montour Visitor Bureau
• Books (Good Morning Susquehanna and Walk With Me) from author Alyssa Maddalena
• Wildlife print from the PA Game Commission
• Flint striker fire-starting tool with fire starters from QuickSurvive
• Two bags Starbucks French Roast coffee
• Variety of nature-related T-shirts
• Rainbow trout Snapback hat
• Billy Yargus box turkey call, hats and other donations from the National Wild Turkey Federation
• Assorted fishing lures
• Mystery tackle box from B&D tackle
• Three-pack of #WildFlavor seasoning from HuntChef (a $30 value)
• Pair of Pennsylvania Juniata County hickory syrups (hunter's blend and black cherry)
• Delta Waterfowl gift package including cooler bag, hat, cup, duck ID book, etc.
• Decorative concrete fire bowl from Fire Bowls by Elizabeth
• Thrivent T-shirts
• Smart bird feeder with built-in camera for 24/7 viewing
• Ecosystem card game
• Fishing lures advent calendar with 24 fishing lures
• Inflatable kayak package
• And more!

There is also going to be a special in person demonstration (as long as weather permits) of an Intro to ice fishing with safety tips from Chris Feese and Kenny Young (Young's Sporting Goods). This session is slated to begin at 1 p.m. Registration is required for this session to make sure we have enough to hold the course. Include your interest in the form below.

People are encouraged to pre-register to help with planning. Those that do will be entered into a special drawing for additional prizes and opportunities. If you have questions, comments or want to get involved or donate toward the event, you can indicate that in the form below or send an email to organizers.

Kelly Gallo, environmental education specialist with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, will present a program titled “The Pennsylvania Snowshoe Hare: A Master of Seasonal Survival” at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, in the auditorium at Montour Preserve’s Environmental Education Center. The presentation will offer an in-depth look at one of northern Pennsylvania’s most remarkable residents, the snowshoe hare.

 ​During this presentation, Kelly will invite you to step into the snowy forests of northern Pennsylvania and meet this extraordinary species, known for its oversized, fur-covered feet and its remarkable ability to change color with the seasons. The snowshoe hare is a true master of winter survival, and Gallo will guide participants through the adaptations that allow it to endure harsh cold, find food in the snow and stay hidden from predators.
​
We will take a closer look at the special forest habitats the snowshoe hare depends on and the challenges these environments face. Gallo will discuss what scientists are learning about the hare’s shrinking range in Pennsylvania, the environmental pressures driving these shifts and how researchers are tracking population trends.

The presentation will also highlight current conservation efforts aimed at protecting this elusive species and ensuring its long-term survival. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the role healthy forest ecosystems play in sustaining snowshoe hare populations and what can be done to support wildlife across the state.

This presentation is family friendly and appropriate for audiences of all ages, including children, teens and adults. If you have any questions, please email Vernal School Program Supervisor Marissa Crames at vernalschool@gmail.com or call 570-850-1166.

There is no cost to attend and the presentation is open to the public; however, we ask that you please register below.