From the Ground Up
​Growing Knowledge Through Nature ​and Community

November 5 - 8, 2026 | Silver Bay YMCA | Silver Bay, NY
​The Annual NYSOEA Conference brings together hundreds of teachers, environmental educators, nature center staff, and administrators from across New York and neighboring states for three days of high-quality professional development. Attendees can experience the conference for the day, or spend the weekend with educators from all over New York State and beyond. This conference is so much more than workshops and sharing of resources, but engages a strong network of educators with passion for supporting outdoor experiences and education throughout the state.​

Conference Highlights for School Teachers:

  • Workshop and keynote opportunities in pedagogy and curriculum content
  • Plug into a network of like-minded educators to navigate teacher-specific barriers in outdoor education
  • Access to a community of nature centers, non-profits, administrators and more to discover local resources and spaces to utilize curriculum.
  • Connect curricula with crosscutting concepts in science, art, physical education, and literacy through nature
  • Sponsored CTLE Credits 
  • Scholarships available 
  • A Letter for School Administrators

REQUEST FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSALS

We are currently accepting workshop proposals for the 58th NYSOEA conference From the Ground Up: Growing Knowledge Through Nature and Community.
Proposals are due Monday, June 8th, 2026. 

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 2026 Keynote Speakers

​Bert Weber is the Vice President and Co-owner of Common Roots Brewing Company, based in South Glens Falls and Albany, NY. Founded in 2014 by Bert and his son Christian, the brewery now distributes to six states across the Northeast. In 2020, the family established the Common Roots Foundation to assist the community during times of crisis and to support social justice, environmental sustainability initiatives, and healthy living projects. To date, the Foundation has donated over $280,000 in grants to more than 100 organizations. An avid outdoorsman, Bert enjoys fly fishing, bicycling, and hiking. He expects to complete his 46er achievement by the time of the conference and has hiked 40 of the lower 48 state high points.
​Michale Glennon is a wildlife ecologist, fiber artist, and director of Wool and Water, a project of the Adirondack Watershed Institute at Paul Smith’s College. Wool and Water is a collaborative project that blends fiber art with scientific information to create visual representations of changing water quality conditions in the Adirondacks and beyond. Knitting, crochet, weaving and other fiber arts are used to illustrate concepts and trends related to our waterways, and to provide inspiration for their protection. As the Director of Research at the Adirondack Watershed Institute, Michale helps provide leadership to AWI's scientific research program.

Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunities

Please consider supporting us by becoming a sponsor or tabling at the conference. 

Thank You To Our 2025 Sponsors

FAQ

How do I register for the conference?
Early bird registration opens July 2026.
Who can I contact for general questions?
For general inquiries, feel free to email us at [email protected]. ​​
Are continuing education credits (CEUs/PD hours) offered?
Yes! Several workshops offering Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE) credits, and will be noted as such in workshop descriptions. If you need formal documentation that you've attended a workshop, you can print our workshop attendance verification document for each workshop presenter to sign.
Where is the conference being held? Is there parking available on-site?
The 58th NYSOEA conference will take place at Silver Bay YMCA in Silver Bays, NY. 
Are there accessible entrances, restrooms, or mobility accommodations? ​
The annual NYSOEA conference shifts locations every year, and we strive to select locations that are safe and accessible. We can provide specific updates regarding access once a conference location is selected. ​
What should I bring to the conference?

We recommend packing for comfort, connection, and fun!
  • Warm layers for evening and outdoor activities.
  • Pen and notebook for workshops.
  • A reusable travel mug, cup, and water bottle (help us stay sustainable!)

Essentials if staying onsite:
  • Bedding, a pillow, towel, and shower supplies; toiletries and any personal items you need.

Nice-to-haves:
  • Business cards to share or post on our community bulletin board.
  • A camp chair for fireside chats or outdoor workshops.
  • Instruments for campfire jam sessions.

For Special Events:
  • Rep Your Region Sustainability Competition (Thursday): BYO “Taste of New York” to share—snacks, local wine, beer, etc. The region with the least disposable packaging wins!
  • Plant Swap: Bring a potted plant or clipping to exchange.
  • Cocktail Hour & Member’s Art Show: Bring your artwork to display and share. Signup Here.
  • Banquet: Pack semi-formal or dress clothes.
  • Raffle Items: Bring a unique, new, or gently used item to donate! Fan favorites include teaching skulls and furs, field guides, museum or sports tickets, like-new outdoor gear, local wine, or handmade items.

And most importantly—bring your enthusiasm for learning, networking, and celebrating environmental learning!

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