Third annual Environmental Education Expo to offer hands-on experiences for all ages Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at Montour Preserve

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."

Some of the activities being planned include guided hikes and bird identification, an ice cream pollinator activity, tech-related birding and environmental activities related to water quality, virtual reality programming, interactive video sessions, an interactive wildlife kit, educational crafting opportunities, trivia, hands-on MWEE activities 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 silent 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."

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.