Environmental education train-the-trainer program seeks high school junior/senior applicants by Feb. 28

One of the MSRKA's growing number of environmental education tools is the Enviroscape model, which illustrates how watersheds work and how pollution can infiltrate waterways.

Current high school juniors and seniors with interest in potentially pursuing environmental education opportunities after graduation are encouraged to apply for the inaugural Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper EELS (Environmental Education Leadership for Students) program.

"Thanks to a growing number of new partnerships, we have additional opportunities to share important environmental education with children and families in various smaller community venues across the watershed," said Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky. "By engaging the next generation of potential educators and helping them build confidence and providing the tools they need to be successful, we are in a much better position to meet the needs of the community and raise critical awareness about our natural resources."

EELS participants -- selected juniors and seniors from schools within the watershed -- will be required to participate in a three-hour training at the Montour Preserve on March 11, 2023, from 1-4 p.m.

At this program, students will hear from a variety of local environmental educators and witness a number of different programs and equipment available through the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association (MSRKA). This will help them find which programs they feel the most comfortable in running in their local communities (with MSRKA assistance).

After graduating the afternoon session on March 11, participants will then each conduct at least three different environmental education programs in libraries, YMCAs or other venues in their local communities using equipment, mentorship and promotion assistance from the MSRKA and its partners. 

There are a limited number of openings for this program. Each student who applies will be interviewed by MSRKA staff for the available openings.

Those interested should fill out the following form by Feb. 28, 2023. if you have any questions about the program, contact Riverkeeper John Zaktansky directly at [email protected] or 570-768-6300.