EVENTS
Pine Barrens Discovery Day
In addition to the many and diverse educational programs offered by the Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning and Policy Commission, the Commission also hosts and partners with other agencies to present a variety of special events every year, each offering different and exciting ways to learn about the Central Pine Barrens region.
Designed to educate people of all ages about the natural and cultural history of the Central Pine Barrens region, Pine Barrens Discovery Day offers a full day of educational fun for the entire family.
Centered at Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge in Shirley, Discovery Day has something for everyone, with
“fun shops” focusing on the many plant and animal species and natural resources found in the pine barrens region, nature walks, games and activities. You can also seine the Carmans River, build an underwater Remote Operated Vehicle to remotely explore the river, visit the Kids Discovery Center and explore numerous exhibits.
The event’s “fun shops” are always a highlight and feature presentations about Long Island’s birds of prey, marine life, native plants, nature sketching, turtle tracking, forest rangers, wildfire forensics and much more.
Nature walks along Wertheim’s spectacular trails and the Carmans River are guided by expert naturalists who help to explain all the natural wonders encountered on the trails. And seining and dock scraping offers the opportunity to explore the aquatic life that is central to life in the pine barrens for the many plant and animal species that reside here.
Many thanks to all of the participants and volunteers who made Discovery Day a great success.
Long Island Natural History Conference
If you want to really dazzle your friends with your in-depth knowledge of the natural sciences, make sure to attend the annual Long Island Natural History Conference. Typically held at Seatuck Environmental Association in Islip, it is the largest regional forum for the exchange of information pertaining to applied field biology and natural history.
The conference is held to help identify research and management needs as well as to encourage a greater interest in Long Island’s natural history. It’s open to the public, so make sure to make plans to attend the next conference!
To learn more visit Long Island Natural History Conference.
The Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning and Policy Commission welcomes your questions about any of our events that we host or help sponsor. To ask any question about these events, please contact our Education and Communications Outreach Coordinator, Tim Motz at tmotz@scwa.com or by calling 631-563-0396.