2026 Pine Barrens Discovery Day

PINE BARRENS DISCOVERY DAY RETURNS SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 12, 2026 at

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, 340 Smith Road, Shirley

Stay tuned for more information on the schedule for the 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.