Below is the general calendar of all activities connected to the Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership and the Montour Preserve's Environmental Education Center. Not all of these events are open to the public. Please scroll below the calendar for details on specific programs and events that you can get involved with, details and how to register.
Read and Explore: Early Literacy and STEM Program" meets at 10 a.m. every Tuesday. Themes vary according to the week. Please visit us on Facebook for the current week's theme.
2 p.m., Sunday, March 16, 2025: Spring Amphibian Walk REGISTRATION IS FULL, WAITING LIST ONLY
Herpetologist Mary Kate O'Donnell of Lycoming College will lead a Spring Amphibian Walk at Montour Preserve. This family friendly outdoor program will take you on a guided walk through the preserve to see where frogs and other amphibians are emerging from hibernation and making their way to breeding pools.
Learn more and register here
10 A.M., Saturday, April 12, 2025: Spring Wildflower Walk
The Pennsylvania Master Naturalists lead a guided walk through the preserve’s trails, where we’ll explore the beauty and diversity of Pennsylvania’s native wildflowers.
Learn more and register here
1 P.M., Sunday, April 13, 2025: Fossil Event with Andrew Rockhound and the Central PA Rock and Mineral Club
Join Andrew Rockhound and the Central PA Rock and Mineral Club for an exciting Fossil Event and Dig at Montour Preserve. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just curious about what’s beneath your feet, this hands-on program is perfect for anyone who loves fossils, geology, and discovering the past.
Learn more and register here
7 P.M., Monday, May 5, 2025: Beavers: Nature's Engineers
Join Susquehanna University's Freshwater Research Institute for an educational program designed to deepen participants’ understanding of beaver ecology, their impact on freshwater habitats, and their importance in maintaining biodiversity. Families will gain a newfound appreciation for these industrious creatures and their contributions to environmental sustainability.
Register Here
10 A.M., Tuesday, May 13, 2025: Into the Woods We Go
The Vernal School is excited to host "Into the Woods We Go" at 10 A.M. on Tuesday, May 13th, 2025. This program is designed to teach young elementary and preschool aged children (and their families) outdoor basics and hiking essentials. This program emphasizes fundamental hiking knowledge, safety precautions and environmental stewardship.
Register Here
10 A.M., Tuesday, May 20, 2025: Junior Fossil Hunter Day
The Vernal School is hosting an exciting Junior Fossil Hunt on Tuesday, May 20th, in the fossil pit of Montour Preserve. This program designed especially for early elementary-age students and preschoolers. This hands-on program offers young explorers the opportunity to dig into the past and uncover fascinating fossils while learning about the region’s prehistoric history in an engaging and age-appropriate way.
Learn more and register here
