Students will explore life from the stream and pond to forest communities and meadows at Climbers Run. We will Investigate ecological systems that support pollinators, forest fungal partnerships, and how to measure the health of streams by observing aquatic organisms. We will also learn how to be a good steward to promote healthy ecosystems!

Your Presenters

Peggy Eppig, Educator, Lancaster Conservancy

Peggy is an environmental historian and dynamic conservation educator who offers a hands-on approach to every theme from deep-time history to 21st century conservation methods and practices. She brings over thirty years of interpretive, experiential education experience for all who have an interest in saving our nature for this and future generations. Her wilder interests are in ornithology (birds), herpetology (reptiles and amphibians), silvology (woodlands) and natural history illustration. She is an avid long-distance hiker and enthusiastic bike-packer who shares outdoor adventures with Amos the Coonhound.

Keith Williams, Naturalist and Community Engagement Coordinator, Lancaster Conservancy

Keith is an environmental educator, naturalist, writer and photographer. He has a BS in Environmental Biology from Kutztown University and MS in Ecological Teaching and Learning from the Lesley University Audubon Expedition Institute. Keith was the founding Director of Education and is the past Executive Director of the NorthBay Education Foundation, one of the largest outdoor education programs in the US. He has served on the National Social Emotional Learning in Environmental Education Working Group, was appointed to the Maryland Governors Environmental Literacy Committee, and served on the Board of the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education for 12 years.

Where to Meet

The barn at Climbers Run Nature Center

What to Expect

This event is designed for grades 6th through 8th. Students must be accompanied by parents. No drop offs. This event will be held rain or shine, with severe weather cancellations being made onsite at the time of the event. Restrooms are available onsite. Please note that tickets only need to be purchased for students. Parents are NO CHARGE and should NOT PURCHASE a ticket.

What to Bring

Students should pack a lunch and bring drinking water. Be ready to get wet! Wear clothes that can get wet and dirty and shoes that stay on your feet.