Sept. 29, 2026, Floating Classroom offered look into vulnerable species in PA and how to help them

The Sept. 29, 2026, Floating Classroom focused specifically on learning more about vulnerable species in the state, finding common issues that have led many of these species to struggle and ways to advocate for them. 

The program kicked off with an overview Powerpoint presentation by Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association board member Maggie Yonkin on the various endangered, threatened and otherwise vulnerable species in Pennsylvania. The slides included info about each specific species that included various bats, birds, mammals and others. ​

Then, Riverkeeper John Zaktansky talked about what a "vulnerable species" was and what we can do to improve the fates of species that are struggling. This included looking at some of the specific concerns of habitat loss, changes in policies and protections that leave species more vulnerable and advocacy.

Students, families and others who attended were then given an opportunity to advocate for one of the species discussed by creating posters, song lyrics, poems and other creative methods. 

You can see some of the posters created as well as additional photos from the program in the gallery below. 

Learn about the remaining few Floating Classroom opportunities aboard the Hiawatha for the 2026 season here.