Pathways Fall2018 DIGITAL PDF

PATHWAYS
Official Publication of the New York State Outdoor Education Association

www.nysoea.org • 607. 591.6422 • Fall 2018
NYSOEA Executive Board
President – Eric Powers
In this Issue…
VP Administration – Kathryn Phipps As we remember the past, we look triumpantly towards the
VP Communications & Technology – Jessica Kratz future. NYSOEA has celebrated its 50 years at the 50th Annual
VP Human Resources – Rebecca Houser Conference this past September at Greenkill Outdoor Education
VP of Programs – Megan Hoffman and Retreat Center, and what a blast it was! In this issue of
PATHWAYS, we again present a special “Conference Section”
Secretary – Sunny Corrao
to highlight the fun and learning that transpired there, with
Treasurer – Elizabeth Van Acker
reflections, reviews, and kudos from attendees. Then, check
Office - Connie Parmiter
out how PATHWAYS is changing with our two new article
series, Citizen Science and Teacher Tips! We also return with
Regional Directors another archival piece about our place as outdoor educators,
Eastern – Rebecca Shultz cast a spotlight on affiliate Westmoreland Sanctuary, and hear
about NYSOEA inclusion and diversity from former Chief Editor,
Metro – Karen Alsen
Jessica Kratz. This issue of PATHWAYS is sure to inspire you to
Northern – Mollie Dean and Tracy Thomas
return for next year’s Annual Conference in Fishkill!
Western – Shannon Lyaski
Central – Josh Teeter Table of Contents
3 President’s Message
2018 Conference Chairs
4 Editor's Corner: Pivot
Flo Mauro
Nancy Reichert 8 Affiliate Spotlight: Westmoreland Sanctuary
11 Flash and Photo Tips

Pathways 12 Archival Piece: You Have a Right to Be Here
Chief Editor 14 50th Anniversary Conference Highlights
Amanda Dauman
15 Reflections on NYSOEA '18
Issue Editors
16 NYSOEA 50th Anniversary Conference: Fiddlers on a Roof?
Jill Eisenstein
Jessica Kratz 18 Award Winners
Graphic Designer 22 The Conference, Outdoor Education at its Best

Matthew Fraher 24 Being a Part of History and Not Living in the Past
Content Editors 25 Opening Doors and a Sense of Place...
Jill Eisenstein
26 Conference Photos
Frank Knight
Darleen Lieber 30 NYSOEA's Milestones
Maren Morsch 35 2018 Brandwein Medal for NYSOEA
Webmaster 36 Thoughts...Letters...Cards...& Emails...
Phil Berkowitz
37 Our Sponsors, Advertisers, Exhibitors, & Partners
Communications & Technology Committee
38 TOS: Chirp, Click, Buzz - Last Call for Insect Orchestra
Jill Eisenstein
40 Bird Wars
Members at Large
Sarah Conley 42 Off the Shelf
Margaret Maruschak 44 Citizen Science Series: The Lost Ladybug Project
Carol Guerreri Rogers
46 Poem - The Agrarian
Katie Finch
Shannon Lyaski 47 Teacher Tips
Cover Photo courtesy of Erica Schwabach
2 Pathways Fall 2018

President’s Message
Frenetic times, unpredictable times… flooding, hurricanes, fires…
yet I’ve never been more certain about my future.
The Annual Conference was a big deal for me…a passing of the
torch from our elders of the past 50 years to the leaders of the
next 50 years. My eyes tear up when that truth sinks in and I taste
it; a hard swallow follows. Tears for the great, amazing friendships
that have formed…the lifelong bonds…the decades of devotion…
the fragility of life and the members we have already said good-
bye to. My fondest memories over the years are the behind-the-
scenes people doing seemingly everything from auctioneering,
to getting donations, organizing, camperships, awards, store,
raffle, displays, and frankly, whatever they want to do because
they’ve got our heart and soul and we need them.
And then I eat breakfast with our new generation members. Bold
new views, a different vocabulary, a hopeful tomorrow. Again, I
fight back joyful tears for the triumphant confidence of youth to
tackle the daunting issues facing our culture, our civilization!
One of my favorite quotes is, “The only constant in the universe
is change.” I am hopeful for that change. The next generation is
ready to pick up the torch and move forward.
So now, as we move towards winter, hibernation, migration,

reflection…I wish us all the grace and wisdom to reflect on
our amazing 50th Anniversary Conference. Let it inspire
you. Invigorate you. Fill you up. Engage you. Let it motivate you
to write an article for PATHWAYS. Or propose a workshop for
Winter Weekend in February or next year’s conference at Sharpe
Reservation, or to take the helm as a Regional representative or
another Board position. Let it challenge you to be a better person,
and let it further you down the path of knowledge and leadership.
Sincerely,
Eric Powers
Eric Powers
President, NYSOEA
president@nysoea.org
Pathways Fall 2018 3

PATHWAYS Chief Editor Amanda Dauman, left, pulling seine
net with
Brittany DiLeo leading an autumnal equinox intention setting exercise that proved pivotal Baldwin
in the initialMiddle School
planning teacher Stacy
of Conference 51. Penzer
4 Photo courtesy of Jessica Kratz Pathways Fall 2018

PIVOT
OR
CONVERSATIONS THAT
CHANGED OUR COURSE
Written by Jessica R. Kratz,
VP Communitcations and Technology, NYSOEA
vp_communications@nysoea.org
Friday, September 21, 2018 During the awards ceremony, I sat next to Tim Stanley and Jill Eisenstein, both of whom
work at Sharpe Reservation. While eagerly anticipating the speeches and learning more
about three outstanding Outdoor Educators: Brittany DiLeo, Tim Stanley, and Josh Teeter,
I was more anxious about the Saturday morning breakfast Board meeting and preparing
to have something to announce to the membership about the 2019 conference. This
was the first time in 10 years on the Board that we entered a conference and did not have
information about next year’s conference, let alone a “Save the Date” postcard and/or
swag. The truth is, 2019 was slated to go to Northern or Western Region and the Board was
looking at Silver Bay YMCA, but chairpeople or any of the other details around conference
planning had yet to materialize. So I passed Tim a note asking if Sharpe would be willing to
host the 2019 conference and conferences every few years. He said “probably.” Subsequent
conversations have solidified the 2019 location as Sharpe Reservation, a location where the
NYSOEA conference last took place in 2015.
Saturday, During the breakfast Board meeting, Jerry Passer, Past President, Founder, and Gold
September 22, 2018 and Leadership Award recipient, came over and spoke to us. The ensuing discussion
underscored the importance of mentorship in the field of outdoor education, and this
upcoming year seems like a good time to launch a NYSOEA Mentorship program.
Prior to the presentation of the Leadership and Harlan “Gold” Metcalf Award, the
photograph of the Past Presidents, and keynote speaker, Judy Braus, Executive Director,
NAAEE, we were asked to write our hopes for the future of outdoor education on large Post-
It notes and post them on chart papers along the walls. As I left the room, I noticed a note
that said “NYSOEA is soooo white.” Admittedly, there is truth to the statement, and in
the era of #OscarsSoWhite, I respect the honesty and directness behind the statement.

Sixteen past presidents and the current
president gather prior to the Saturday
keynote speaker. Photo courtesy of
Marty Strong. Captioning courtesy of
George Steele.
Back row, (L-R):

Lucinda Hurley (1994-96),
Heather Chadwick (2000-02),
Tim Stanley (2012-2016),
Foster Portzline (2002-04),
Andy Angstrom (1975-76),
George Steele (1986-87),
Jay Cummings (1987-88),
Snapper Petta (1996-98),
Paul Kuznia (1992-94)
Front row, (L-R):

Jerry Passer (1977-78),
Flo Mauro (1984-85),
Sally McCracken (1980-81),
L. Janet Lee (1981-82),
Eric Powers (2016-present),
MaryAnna Russo (2004-08),
MaryLynne Malone (2008-12),
Marty Strong (1988-89).
Saturday, Later that night, I was still thinking about this at the campfire. This was the night of the
September 22, 2018 autumnal equinox, and Brittany DiLeo handed around herbs and wildflowers gathered
nearby to toss into the fire while setting intentions. I threw mine in the fire and said that my
intention is to stop avoiding hard conversations. The fire roared and the campfire seemed
to grow more spirited and boisterous. I was wondering whether people would choose to go
to workshops discussing various aspects of identity in addition to more traditional outdoor
education offerings. Perhaps cultural competency is as interesting and relevant at our
conferences as leaf and skull identification. I tentatively asked Brittany if they would lead
a workshop related to such discussions, and they said, you mean, on being “weird and
wonderful,” then yes.
Sunday, Somehow, after a few hours of sleep, many people woke up energized on Sunday morning,
September 23, 2018 buzzing with energetic conversations. Brittany announced that they thought about what
we discussed at the campfire and would be willing to be one of the chairs for a diversity and
inclusion-themed conference. I suggested one of my boss, Maritza Cuevas’ favorite lines,
“The Outdoors is for EVERYONE!” as the working tagline for the conference, and Maritza
suggested a graphic of white light from the sun being filtered through a New York-shaped
prism and becoming the various colors of the rainbow. All of a sudden, despite a delayed
start, there is tremendous momentum behind Conference 51, one that can make this a
groundbreaking, game changing conference, and hopefully represent and reflect ALL of
our members.
It was excellent to have the opportunity to take a closer look at “NYSOEA is sooo white”
and the other pieces of direct, honest feedback written on Post-It Notes, then curated
by category for Dottie Shuman’s closing conversations. We had the opportunity to step
out of our comfort zones, then into our stretch zones and action zones, deciding, and
visibly representing, which of the topic areas we intend to work on when we get home.
Diversity is not an area I have done much work on in my time in the board. There was
always something safer, more pressing, more tangible: i.e., regional welcome letters, a new
member welcome packet, PATHWAYS. Prior to this conference, I thought my time on the
Board was winding to a close, and the most pressing priority was the new website. Now

Sunday, I am energized by, as conference co-chairs Flo Mauro and Nancy Reichert have stated in
September 23, 2018 their co-chair message, “the perspective, promise, and possibility of all the people gathered.”
In taking a closer look at the 16 past and 1 current president, the statement reads as an
oversimplification. There is diversity, if it is looked at more closely. Seven of the seventeen
people in the photograph are female, and three of those female presidents served in the
1980s: Sally McCracken, L. Janet Lee, and our dynamic conference co-chair, Flo Mauro.
The NYSOEA Endowment was established in 1987 under George Steele, our only Asian-
American president. To the best of my knowledge, at least 3 of the Past Presidents are
LGBTQ+.
But I will not whitesplain any further. To the conference attendees that did not feel
represented or understood by the people in leadership positions, I promise to do better. To
the Student Conservation Association staff reading this article, I hope you share it with your
members, especially those who could not attend the closing conversations. While Brother
Yusuf did amazing work that lives on in our campership program and on the cover of our
new membership brochure, and my supervisor, Maritza Cuevas, former Metro Region
Representative 2007, then VP Administration 2008-2010, who convinced me to attend
my first conference in 2004, are excellent examples of persons of color that have risen to
leadership in NYS Outdoor Education in somewhat recent memory, there are currently no
persons of color on the board or chairing committees.
I promise to be part of the challenging, necessary work to help make that change.
There are cautionary tales of other organizations that have needed to make a “planned exit,”
and on Sunday morning towards the conclusion of our annual meeting, Lucinda Hurley
alluded to this, citing the American Nature Study Society (ANSS) as a cautionary tale. That
being said, on behalf of the Board, I will say that we are not perfect, but are making great
strides and are moving in an exciting, positive direction. Our endowment is close to its
goal, our overall membership is growing, and we are working to better serve our individual
and affiliate members.
When are children, we are taught to sing the Hokey Pokey, “You put your whole self in. You
put your whole self out. … and you shake it all about…. And that’s what it’s all about.” When
do we stop doing that, and why? My early childhood education staff sing a version of
this for insects, the “Buggie Wuggie.” Shortly after the 2019 conference, I will be turning
40 years old. It is a privilege to have a home base in NYSOEA and place in the outdoor
education profession at a stage in life and career when many need to step away for a while,
or for good. I may be outnumbered both by newer and by more experienced members, but
my voice and perspective are valid. Right now, in following George Steele’s lead, I plan to
celebrate my upcoming December birthday with a Facebook fundraiser to move us closer
to the $100,000 endowment goal so we can give out more scholarships and send more
kids to DEC camp (and more!), grow our Facebook page to 1000+ likes before the 2019
conference and the page’s 5 year anniversary. I guess I can say right now, I am all in:
head, thorax, and abdomen. How about you?

Affiliate Spotlight
Westmoreland
Sanctuary
Written by Margaret Maruschak
T
he Westmoreland Sanctuary is dedicated to
getting people to spend more of their time
outside with quality outdoor offerings and
personalized partnerships. Located on 640
acres in Mount Kisco, NY, the not-for-profit
Westmoreland Sanctuary has been providing
environmental education, conservation programs, and
outdoor recreational activities for over 60 years.
Housed in a reconstructed 200-year-old historic church,

the nature center features museum exhibits, a large and
varied live animal collection in impeccable habitats, and a
large auditorium. Outside, Westmoreland’s 7.5 miles of well-
marked hiking trails all interconnect so hikers can customize
their hikes. Although Westmoreland is located just off I-684
(exit 4) in densely-populated Westchester County, only a few
minutes into the Sanctuary, the quiet natural beauty takes
over visitors’ senses.
Student programs and research

A real stand-out at Westmoreland is its customized
approach to the various field study and community service
needs of youth and young adults. As Executive Director
Ann Paul explained, staff listens to each student and advisor,
designs a unique outdoor project to fit the needs of the
student, and then serves as mentors throughout the project.
Westmoreland is accredited with SUNY Purchase and other
major universities to host student research for college credits,
and college interns have chosen projects such as invasive
plant removal with habitat restoration or a turtle study with
monitoring. As part of their studies, the students create a
Power Point presentation and write a part of the center’s
Nature Resource Management Manual.
High school students conduct scientific research projects,

complete community service, or work towards Scouting
awards. Westmoreland staff encourages students to recognize
environmental problems and figure out how they can help in
their own backyards. Students doing research for academic
credit choose personal projects and work independently.
Director of Education Collin Martin, new to Westmoreland

this year, brings his years of specializing in experiential
environmental education to help students learn to question
what they are observing. Favorite classes include bird banding
with federally licensed bird bander and General Manager
Stephen Ricker, pond study, survival, and nature hikes, while
colonial candle making, bat house construction, and outdoor
cooking classes add a unique flair to the offerings. Classes
meet New York State curriculum standards, and Westmoreland
is happy to work with classroom teachers to support specific
needs for classroom learning. A Teacher Open House is
hosted each Fall to explore student possibilities.
Pathways Fall 2018 Pathways Fall 2018 9

Community involvement
Westmoreland offers several on-site adult enrichment classes
in conjunction with Westchester Community College. Fall
2018 classes include topics such as winter tree identification,
bird banding, native pollinators, and colonial candle-making.
A new and popular public event series, “Conservation, Wine,

& Floral Design”, is held several times a year. This is a casual
evening where participants are treated to a conservation talk
and then a question-and-answer period with a naturalist.
Wine and food accompany a class in floral arrangements,
‘tablescapes’ or wreath arrangement. Invasive plants are
included in the arrangement, so participants learn about
particular plants and their life history.
Twice a year, Hudson Valley Orienteering brings sanctioned

and recreational orienteering meets to Westmoreland. These
events are for experts and beginners alike, with a variety of
courses set up for both family and the individual. Held as part
of the National Orienteering competition, ‘A-Meets’ draws
competitors from all over the country.
The Westmoreland Center staff is dedicated to partnering

with its community to engage visitors in the many facets of
environmental education and conservation. Other offerings
include camp and after-school programs, scouting badge
programs, birthday parties, a maple SugarFest!, and more.
The hiking trails and wildlife sanctuary are free and open
to the public every day year-round. The nature museum
is open daily and closed for only a few major holidays. For
more information on all Westmoreland has to offer, visit
westmorelandsanctuary.org.

Taking Professional- Use Flash Like
Quality Photos Wedding & Fashion
Indoors & Out Photographers
Written by Frank Knight
frankknight@earthlink.net
INDOORS OUTDOOR non-flash al-

“I wish I had brought Find or download your
• Strong overhead lighting ternative with CAMERAS
my camera today!” and phone or camera
puts shadows in eye sockets, ONLY (NOT smartphones):
“Does anyone have any instruction booklet, read
under nose, and chin FLASH 1. As above, shoot the whole
spare batteries?” are two and practice all you learn
for professional even scene; then move in close
camera concerns we no about flash use. Limited
lighting. aiming not at your subject,
longer hear. Since nearly flash reach on small de-
• Windows or white wall be- but instead at darkest, shad-
everyone now has a vices will limit flash use
hind people trick light meter. owed foreground.
smartphone, we have a outdoors to subject very
Move in closer. FLASH at 2. Depress shutter button
fully-charged camera at close to camera.
angle to window to avoid half-way to lock light meter
our fingertips. Extraordi-
Then, practice, practice, glass reflection. to dark area; then raise cam-
nary photo quality on fully
practice. Take photos the era to recompose before fully
automatic devices lulls us OUTDOORS with FLASH:
way you always have and pushing shutter.
into complacency. What • Turn on smartphone or
we should be asking now the same shot with flash camera flash for even up- ALWAYS REMEMBER:
is: “Why are peoples’ faces turned on. The results will close lighting. • We read our phones’ words
so dark?” and “Why aren’t speak for themselves. Pro- • Photograph people with vertically but should photo
my pictures as appealing fessional photographers their back to the sun shining only horizontally.
as those I see in outdoor tell me we should use in your eyes, not theirs for • When you have a choice,
clothing catalogs?” The flash for all people pic- squint-free smiling or en- for group shots use cameras
main difference is the tures both indoors gaged faces with halo high- with more powerful flashes
consistent use of flash and out. light around their hair instead of phones. Phone
for faces by fashion and Move in close, compare or hats. okay for one to a few faces.
wedding photographers your results, then decide • Shoot the whole scene Flash images always better
indoors and out in every if your extra effort was and then move in closer after moving in close.
lighting condition. worthwhile, and conclude to focus on what people • Practice all techniques
that you now are a pro- in foreground are seeing above with family and friends
fessional photographer or doing. indoors and out to perfect
whose pictures put faces • Outdoor flash brightens your professional photogra-
in their best light only closest subjects; back- phy skills.
grounds stay natural.

Solid Roots
Editor’s Note
In the months leading up to the 50th Anniversary of NYSOEA, we began
publishing articles from our archived publications dating back to 1969. Because
the articles have been well received by PATHWAYS readers, we have decided
to keep publishing them. May we all continue to learn from, appreciate, and be
strengthened by NYSOEA’s solid roots as we grow and change.
12 Illustration by Wayne Trimm Pathways Fall 2018

You Have a
RIGHT To Be Here
By: Alvin S. Fick
This article originally appeared in NYSOEA’s The Communicator, Volume 3, Number 3, Spring, 1972.
I live in the country. That does not say much. I live in the on a level of perception different from our fellow man, degrees
country by choice. There, that’s better. I live in the country of personal development traceable to outdoor experience will
because I want to stay close to the wellsprings of my personal be infinite in variety.
philosophy, and to nurture the living thread which binds me
to all life. All but the most callous, however, respond in some fashion
to the natural world. It is this wide base of response which
The pantheistic notion of the interconnected oneness of all provides the rich soil for the outdoor educator. Yet I ask,
life and all the forces in the universe is an old one, although how many of you give conscious thought to the awful
some of today’s spate of ecological writers would have but wonderful responsibility you carry? I refer not to your
you believe they invented the idea just last week. Fifty-two responsibility as a teacher of academia, but to that far more
years ago [now 98 years ago – ed.], from the summit of his important aspect of your pupil’s mystic bond to all forms of
years and not long before his death, John Burroughs wrote life and, indeed, to the forces which govern the universe.
and published “Accepting the Universe.” Here in an all but
forgotten book is recorded the distillation of a long and It is an awesome responsibility. From your discharge of it
thoughtful life close to nature. can come to your pupils a life style, a sense of wholeness,
and an awareness of “place.” Recently the Desiderata found
“We seek to check the ravages of the tent caterpillar, the in old Saint Paul’s Church, Baltimore, dated 1692, was set to
forest worms, the gypsy moth, the potato-beetle, and the music and soon was in everybody’s top ten record list. Part of
invisible enemies that rot our grapes and mar our apples, as it states, “You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees
well as the germs that sow fatal diseases in our midst. But not and the stars; you have a right to be here.” Many are the lost
so nature. She does not take sides. As I have said, she has no who are seeking.
special and limited aims. The stakes are hers, whoever wins…
A malignant tumor is as much an expression of Providence Is there a greater calling than one which finds you helping
as a baby or a flower.” people build a happier, fuller life, to achieve a philosophy
which sustains and makes even death wholesome, acceptable
One might go on and on in quoting but perhaps two and natural? Listen again to John Burroughs: “We must regard
sentences best sum up a rationale for outdoor education: creation as a whole, as the evolution of worlds and systems,
“The greatest things that are done today are not done in the and not concentrate our attention upon man and his ways, or
name of religion, but in the name of science, of humanity, upon the earth—so small a part of our solar system.”
of civilization. The brotherhood that has force and meaning
is no longer a sectarian brotherhood; it is larger than all the Because we live in a competitive world we are subject to
churches combined.” tensions which often defy pacification efforts. It is easy to
slip into the harness civilization has ready for us, knowing
It is in an outdoor setting, away from the artifices and full well how it will chafe and gall, and how weary we will
artificialities of the man made, that an educator can best hope become. It has the feel of familiarity. Its very omnipresence
to ignite that small flame of personal philosophy over which a dictates that each of us must come to terms, must adjust or
fellow human can warm his soul the rest of his days. A study perish. The escape routes are many and varied, and some sing
of the natural environment, a pursuit of the complexities of a deceptively siren song: drugs, drink, feverish recreational
ecology, learning for learning’s sake, the exploration of the activity, religion – the opiates to keep us insulated from our
scientific idiom – all are a hollow mockery if they do not basic human condition come in many guises.
ultimately generate in the individual a climate hospitable to
the growth of his adjustment to life. Since each of us exists Do I hear you inquire about mine? Well, you already know
about that. It’s in the first paragraph. I live in the country.

1971 1974 1977 1979
1982 1983 1984 1985
2018
NYSOEA Conference
Highlights
1988 1992
1995 1999 2001 2003
2006 2007 2014 2018

Greenkill...a long time Affiliate member...recognized and awarded for its leadership
and standards for excellence in EE and OE ...was the perfect host site for the 50th
Reflections on NYSOEA '18

and 50 Years of Purpose
Written by Fred Stoss
Librarian, SUNY University at Buffalo
On my return from the 2018 NYSOEA Annual Conference, I will be a harvest from the seeds we plant in children of all
got to thinking (some think that might be dangerous) about a ages because in them those seeds become the roots that
common thread heard at many of the talks and presentations strengthen and empower, the roots that enlighten, and the
(and come to think of it, many previous annuals). The roots that will support those children in the coming years
thread was the question, “What are you doing?” with several and decades. I often tell college students I encounter in
variations on the emphasis of the words “you” and “doing.” I information literacy and library research classes (along with
thought of a reflection I saw underneath the mist of the lake their other professors) that I want them to do well in their
one morning, as trees living and dead along the opposite classroom, laboratory, and field settings so that they can go
shore were reflected in the stillness of the lake’s surface. The out into the world and do good.
beginnings of the annual rite of autumnal splendor and
the cyclic ways of nature were unfolding. Every cycle has a That proclamation is just as good for the students and children
beginning. Every cycle has an end that brings us back to the you encounter—the desire for them to do well in their outdoor
beginning. The beginning is the planting of seeds that provide adventures and experiences so they can go out into the world
the harvest of the fields and the palette of the changing leaves. and “do good” for the sake of preserving the viability of the
environments in which we live, work, and play. Our efforts
We educators and teachers are planters of seeds—seeds that will empower and enable those students in their futures to
we hope become the openings of that magical and mystical provide answers to questions that have to be asked, to solve
“sense of wonder” about which Rachel Carson wrote and problems that have to be identified, and to teach generations
gave to us, after her death. They are the seeds of enthusiasm, that have to be born. THIS is what we have done, THIS is what
the seeds of appreciation, the seeds of awe, the seeds of we do, and THIS is what we will continue to do—teaching well
knowledge, and the seeds of caring. After we plant, we so others might do good. It is our path to sustaining our and
nurture, and we must be successful in this endeavor. There others’ futures.

2018 NYSOEA CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
Jay Ungar & Molly Mason with guest musician and NYSOEA Founder, Jerry Passer
The NYSOEA 50th Anniversary Conference:

Fiddlers on a roof?
Written by Nancy Reichert
The 50th anniversary celebration for NYSOEA has passed. But in reflecting on the event, for some reason the theme
The theme to Learn it…Live it…Pay it Forward progressed of the Fiddler on the Roof kept coming to mind. His
from Thursday to Sunday better than we could have hoped. quandary--“…you might say every one of us is a fiddler on
Those who attended found themselves living and learning the roof trying to scratch out a pleasant, simple tune without
outdoor education through myriad workshops. Natural breaking his neck. It isn’t easy. You may ask, why do we stay
history found us exploring turtles and trees and taps, bones up there if it’s so dangerous? Well, we stay because Anatevka
and birds and biomimicry, ‘Oh my!’, streams and spiders, is our home. And how do we keep our balance? That I can tell
geology and invasives, wasps and forests, hawks and history you in one word: Tradition!” But then comes the reply, “The
and humans—‘oh my!’ Our hands got busy with bikes, bows world is changing, Papa.”
and baskets, kayaks and chairs, cordage and cardio; guitars,
Last month all of us, at home in our ‘Anetevka’ of outdoor
ropes and fires; STEM, aquaponics, and upcycling. Teaching
education, immersed ourselves in the goal, the messages,
skills were enhanced for early childhood, teens, NYC schools,
the relationships of the NYSOEA conference. It was our
mathematics, teacher speak, trade tips, learning shortcuts.
legacy year—“Tradition”...Because of our traditions we’ve kept
Right brains were challenged, and outdoor and green
our balance for many many, years. Founders were brought
classrooms constructed. Professionally we grew in writing,
forth, old members dug up (so to speak), ‘oldies but goodies’
partnering, nurturing, improving health, and leadership
workshops resurrected. With this emphasis on legacy, we
and digital tools were sharpened. ‘Oh my’ is right! Just the
learned our organization has a deepness in its genesis, our
breadth of what could be learned and lived in three days at
profession has lasting merit. Speakers and testimonials
NYSOEA can take your breath away. And these were only
painted the picture of fiddlers past whose contributions and
the workshops. Add to these speakers transitioning us over
work over the many, many years has kept our organization
time, events highlighting art and books and wisdom, exhibits,
balanced on the roof of outdoor education through
music, community service, and fellowship...and the Annual
environmental, educational, and political change. The fiddler
Conference was an event to be experienced.

muses, “On the other hand…”—change continues and forward she had received from a young student who she had
movement is not possible without youth. Scholarship funds connected with during the Conference. They had found each
were solicited for the next generation with encouraging other, claiming not just wisdom but friendship to take forward.
success. Students and young educators were sought out to
participate in our anniversary knowing through them outdoor Third, the energy that grew over the three days seemed
education is to live in the changes to come. palpable. Folks seemed not just excited but anxious to get
more involved. A first–time attendee told us to keep the
Natural laws are unchanging; skills are skills; best practices refund owed him because it was so worth it and he intended
best. Yet, outdoor education is never repetitive even when to get more involved. Having worked on several conference
repeated. There is a dynamic stemming from each person’s committees, I know that initial tentative response to be
personal experience. A quote noted in our program book involved is always rewarded as relationships and networks
by Alan Gussow, founder of Friends of the Earth, best build. This year was no different. Tending to be a glass half
expresses our sense of place as a process of experiencing an empty person, I accepted this year’s co-chair saying (in what I
environment deeply and notes that it is against the haunting thought was a positive tone), “This would be the period in my
of these places “which we often measure our present.” In its outdoor education career.” The other co-chair, Flo Mauro with
unchanging nature the outdoor places change with people, a glass half full attitude, noted, “This would be the exclamation
perspective, and possibility as we expressed in the Chair’s mark!” She was right, and to her credit, her energy made it so.
Message. Together at our 2018 conference, most might agree I was heartened by a past president, whose positivity showed
that certain overarching threads emerged. in a comment in her story, saying, “I got to be a conference
chair,” and the “honor and privilege,” she felt being asked to
First, no one can deny the intergenerational face of our run for president. That is the enthusiasm that pays it forward
50th Anniversary. Never has there been such diversity of in the Association.
age at a NYSOEA conference. Acting on a vision of tradition
and legacy to draw in elders, and change and scholarship But how were we to extend ourselves in our own circle of
to encourage youth, participants ranged from 18 to 80. A influence? Energy here was graphically expressed in our
certain beauty emerged, seeing retirees and college students “Closing Conversation”. Nearly 75 people remained for this
and current professionals engaging together in a unity of final event on Sunday, discussing “What’s next?” After small
purpose. Most poignant of all was the transition in ‘flash mob’ group discussions, folks alternated choosing areas of action
testimonials from the elder to the younger culminating in that and influence where they thought they could step out of
of a Cortland student whose metaphor of outdoor educators their comfort zones into literal circles of challenge and
as a tree of generations hit home for all. Going forward it was commitment to pay it forward--to “bequeath to our children
clear outdoor education is made strong through the passing the exuberant joy” described by founder “Gold” Metcalf.
contribution of each generation.
Tradition or change? It was also Harlan “Gold” Metcalf
Second, the emergence of the importance of mentors was whom a past-president referred to as saying we should “stay
an unintended discovery. Time after time the importance of consistently in the presence of the best in the sphere in
mentorship began to emerge as a theme as it was expressed which you seek attainment, and make an honest response.” In
or experienced. Speakers, without coordinating thought, NYSOEA we are in the presence of some of the best outdoor
seemed to all hinge part of their message on the importance educators in New York, young and old. The energy to make
of having or being a mentor. As conference chairs we were an honest response that arose from our 50th Conference is
pleased that, without conscious planning, we found one of heartening. Remind yourself of what you experienced those
us would open the conference by introducing their mentor three days, re-read the conference booklet to be reminded
and the other would close the conference doing the same. of resources, relationships, and remembrances. Chart your
As some of us celebrated reunions or story sharing of course.
mentors, others at the conference reached out to be one or
to find one. Mentors have lived it and the young are living it. Back to the Fiddler on the Roof—does our balance as we
The tradition of one is incorporated into the change of the move forward in outdoor education come from tradition
other. At the annual meeting it came full circle in a touching or from change? The answer? Yes.
moment when an 80+ member shared the text conversation

2018 NYSOEA Award Winners

Harlan G. "Gold" Metcalf
Kathy Ambrosini
The highest honor presented to a member of NYSOEA recognized Kathy
for over 30 years of involvement with inclusive outdoor, experiential and
environmental education with diverse audiences. She has championed
curriculum development, outdoor S.T.E.M. learning, accessibility and the
application of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to curricula and lesson
plan development. For NYSOEA, she has served as VP for Administration,
VP for Programs, Eastern Regional Director, Legacy Committee, and on
many Conference Committees. Kathy secured the keynote speakers for
the 2018 conference as well as the documentary, “An American Ascent,”
which was screened twice during the workshop sessions.
Kathy is the author of Making Outdoor Programs Accessible, she has been
Harlan “Gold” Metcalf Award the recipient of NYSOEA’s Leadership Award and Service Award; “Beyond
“As educators, we have a responsibility to future
generations; therefore, we must bequeath to our the Letter of the Law” Award from Resource Center for Accessible Living;
children the exuberant joy of being able to breathe and named an “Inclusivity Hero” by the Inclusive Recreation and Resource
fresh air, to drink clean water, to scent trailing arbutus, Center. Currently Director of Education at Mohonk Preserve, she has also
to hear breezes in the top of a grove of white pines and
the magic of the song of a hermit thrush in cathedral served as adjunct faculty at SUNY New Paltz, environmental educator
towers of red spruce, and to find individuals living in for Putnam and Northern Westchester BOCES, and as a volunteer for the
harmony with the land and with each other.”
Committee on Special Education in the New Paltz Central School District.
This award was presented by Flo Mauro, 2018 Conference Co-chair and
NYSOEA Past President.
Presidential Award
Darleen Lieber
This award recognized Darleen Lieber, who is retiring this year, for
her many years of behind the scenes help with NYSOEA’s operations.
From the NYSOEA office at SUNY Cortland, she has not only served
as an invaluable content editor for PATHWAYS, but also kept track of
all the paperwork for memberships and subscriptions, and handled
communications coming through nysoea.org as well as other details
imperative to the smooth running of the organization. This award
was presented by Eric Powers, NYSOEA President.

Outdoor Educator Award

Tim Stanley
The award recognized Tim as one who has used the outdoors to enrich
curriculum and interpret the natural world in a way that has expanded the
environmental appreciation of both children and adults for more than 20
years. Besides environmental education, farm and Planetarium curriculum
development at Sharpe Reservation, he started Native Beeology in 2014,
through which he takes his learning about native bees to the rest of the
world -both children and adults--via workshops, a website, and social
media. On the Board of NYSOEA, he helped the organization expand into
Environmental Literacy advocacy and establish a Diversity Committee. In
2017, Tim joined the Board of Stony Kill Farm, where he continues to help
with outdoor educational outreach. This award was presented by
Jill Eisenstein.

Brittany DiLeo
This award recognized Brittany for their impact in outdoor education
throughout NYS, and especially in New York City, where they have been
active in urban rewilding education, communication, and networking for
the past five years. Brittany’s fungi workshop has been one of the most fun
and well-attended workshops for the past few years at NYSOEA events. Last
fall, Brittany assumed the chair position of the Environmental Education
Advisory Council, a key NYSOEA partner and leading environmental
education organization in New York City, and has now assumed the role of
2019 NYSOEA conference co-chair. This award was presented by Jessica
Kratz, VP Communications and Technology.


Josh Teeter
The award recognized Josh as the primary educator for the Finger Lakes
region of NY State Parks, where he designed new and innovative lessons that
highlight the unique geology, history and natural history of the region, and
where he has also been involved in projects pertaining to invasive species,
volunteer recruitment and NYS FORCES (Friends of Outdoor Recreation,
Conservation and Environmental Stewardship). Josh currently serves as an
adjunct professor for SUNY Cortland where he teaches courses in Recreation
Management, Outdoor Education and Wilderness and American culture.
In addition, he taught the Outdoor Education Practicum which includes a
9-day centralized camp setting and a 5-day wilderness canoe experience.
He previously taught at SUNY Binghamton offering similar course work.
He is a NYS Licensed Guide, Project WET/WILD d Facilitator Trainer, and

Wilderness First Aid certified. Josh was integral in launching the NYS Parks
First Day hikes, which take place on January 1st each year. One of his First
Day hikes had 598 participants, which is no small feat, especially in central
New York. This award was presented by John Stowell, Facility Manager,
Taconic Outdoor Education Center.
Service Award
Carol Rogers
This award recognized Carol, a long-time employee of the
NYS Parks in the Niagara Region in western New York, for her
outstanding support of NYSOEA’s goals by contributing many, many
hours of personal time and energy. Carol stepped up not once, but
twice, to be a Conference chair, first in 2006 and again a decade
later, in 2016. She has approached service with tireless enthusiasm
and passion. This award was presented by Jessica Kratz, VP
Communications and Technology.

Environmental Impact Award

Carol DiPaolo
The award recognized Carol DiPaolo of the Coalition to Save Hempstead
Harbor (CSHH) for her years of dedicated work in helping to monitor and
save the waters of Long Island Sound. Many years ago, Carol identified
that there were government and volunteer organizations monitoring the
health of Long Island Sound, but that there were redundant and conflicting
protocols and stations. She worked with Nassau BOCES (a neutral partner) to
host meetings of the Connecticut DEP, NYSDEC, and many others to reduce
redundancy, resulting in better understandings of practice, sharing of data,
and cost savings.
Tirelessly speaking to legislators and community groups, teaching educators

and children about Long Island’s ecosystems and particularly Long Island
Sound and Hempstead Harbor, she has helped give voice to community
members, and provided truthful, data-based analysis of the impact of
proposed projects on the marine environment of Long Island. This
award was presented by Lucinda Hurley, NYSOEA Past President.
Leadership Award
John Stowell
John was recognized for his leadership in expanding outdoor education
at the local and state levels through his work with NYS Parks, his work
at Taconic Outdoor Education Center (TOEC), and NYSOEA. A frequent
presenter at the NYS Fair and at team building exercises throughout the state
for State Parks, he is well regarded as an effective leader and role model.
He was instrumental in setting up a stewardship program to better educate
hikers at the overcrowded Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, which is
near TOEC, and has spearheaded outdoor education programs at various
NYS Parks for the campers and day visitors. He has chaired the Annual
Conference for NYSOEA, and is often dubbed “Johnny Maple Syrup” for his
role in managing TOEC’s popular Maple Valley Farm sugaring program. His
commitment to an environmental ethic, which drives him to continue to
develop programs and stay vibrant in his approach to outdoor education,
makes him well respected among his peers. This award was presented by
Flo Mauro, 2018 Conference Co-chair and NYSOEA Past President.

The Conference,
Outdoor Education at its Best
Written by Danny Kriesburg
Early in my career as an outdoor educator, someone sug- conference year after year. At each one, I learned more ways
gested I go to “the conference.” I did not know what to expect. to integrate outdoor education into my classroom teaching.
“The conference” is the New York State Outdoor Education As- The conferences were also a fantastic opportunity to share
sociation’s signature event. The annual gathering is an oppor- some of the lessons and ideas I had developed over the years.
tunity for outdoor educators, Pre K-12 teachers, and life-long It felt good to give back.
learners to share, learn and have fun. For me, it was a fantastic
experience that ended up having an enormous influence This year was the 50th anniversary of “The Conference.” The
both professionally and personally. At the conference, I real- theme was “Learn it…Live it… Pay It Forward!” and was held
ized there was a whole community of outdoor environmental September 20-23, 2018, at the Greenkill Outdoor Education &
educators across New York State. The workshops, informal Retreat Center in Huguenot, NY. Over 230 people were in at-
conversations, friendships, and the experiences showed me tendance. There were workshops, speakers, exhibits, an auc-
that a life-long career in outdoor education was possible. I tion, and other activities. The setting was beautiful, with lots of
gained knowledge and ideas that made me a better educa- opportunities for hiking and exploring. The organizers of the
tor. By meeting folks from across the state, it was an excellent conference wanted to use the 50th anniversary as an oppor-
opportunity to network and learn about the quality programs tunity for everyone to better appreciate the history of NYSOEA
and work of other outdoor educators. and ensure a bright future.
Even as I made the transition from working in a nature center This year the conference had three strands of workshops:
to becoming a classroom teacher, I continued to attend the “Learn It”, workshops to learn and appreciate more about the

natural world and help educators strengthen their own sense

of wonder. In this strand, a popular workshop was “Birding
for Life”, presented by LoraKim Joyner and Gail Koelin. “Live It”
were workshops that gave participants opportunities to con-
sider new ways to experience or educate in the outdoors that
will make them more effective. A workshop on “Roving In-
terpretation” lead by Josh Teeter help participants learn more
about this innovative technique for teaching. “Pay It Forward!”
workshops were for making the field of outdoor education
stronger for the future, so the work continues. Maritza Cuevas’
workshop “How to Cultivate Partnerships” demonstrated ways
to connect outdoor education to other community organiza-
tions. Virendra Rawat traveled all the way from India to tell
the participants about the 140 Green Education schools he
has opened.
Keynote speakers were Judy Braus and Bill Hammond, Ph.D. Cortland student's 'testimonial'
In keeping with the theme of the conference, Dr. Hammond
shared his wisdom on what we can learn from the history of
outdoor education. Dr. Hammond has worked in outdoor en-
vironmental education for over 50 years, and his perspective
of how children in the past had informal mentors spoke to the
need for today’s outdoor educators to recreate those kinds of
experiences. Ms. Braus focused her presentation on a vision
for the future of outdoor environmental education. As the Ex-
ecutive Director of the North American Association for Envi-
ronmental Education (NAAEE), she shared a vision of outdoor
education being more diverse, based on research and having
an even more significant impact.
It was inspiring to be at an incredible gathering of the past,

present, and future of outdoor education. As Jeff S, a student
at SUNY Cortland so eloquently said to the audience “We can
look at what is here today as a tree. Those of us that are start-
ing their careers are the leaves, just branching out, the current Immersed in Forestry Stewardhip
educators are the trunk providing support, and the folks that
began outdoor education in New York are the roots. Together
we have something beautiful and strong.” It was a weekend of
reunions with old friends and time for making new friends.
Throughout the conference, you could see the energy passed
down from mentors to mentees who then became mentors of
the next generation.
New York State has been gifted with incredible natural re-
sources and outdoor recreation opportunities. While there are
still environmental problems, there has been much success.
To preserve and continue, we need citizens who will be effec-
tive stewards of the land and water. NYSOEA plays an essential
role in helping people gain the knowledge, skills, and love to
do just that. Next year’s conference will be held at Sharpe Res-
ervation in Fishkill, NY. I encourage anyone interested in New
York’s natural history and outdoor education to attend.
Saturday workshops captivated participants

Being a Part of History

and Not Living in the Past
Written by Mary Lynne Malone
Past President (2009–2012)
Learn it… from the building blocks of childhood that spark an workshops and speaking. Everyone is welcome; many are
interest and wonder about the out of doors. The first teachers, met with hugs and smiles. There are lifelong friendships that
our parents, lead the way and the others we choose or have dictate a gravitational pull during gatherings and meals. When
come across our paths strengthen the desires to continue the we ask ourselves to live it, what does that mean? It means that
learning. in turn we should all follow the model live sustainably, offer
mentorship to others, continue learning. The landscape of
Live it…the cornerstone of any good structure, education and faces in a NYSOEA crowd is not on the surface as diverse as
practice. It has more to do with luck, passion and enthusiasm the individuals we work with - including teachers, students,
than actual skills or knowledge...learning more, relearning, parents, visitors and campers - although that landscape is
and then reinventing. changing because we have become aware and are willing to
make changes that will draw others.
Pay it forward…Sharing the skills, knowledge and enthusiasm
with others in and out of the field so that they too can learn, Welcoming all and mentoring young professionals,
relearn and reinvent and share with others. encouraging those we are fortunate to teach and share
with, partnering with more diverse and possibly unexpected
From making some wise decisions, like picking the right
partners. Enjoying shared experiences like forest walks for
school, to landing with both feet firmly on the ground in the
mental health healing and outdoor learning for those with
luckiest of circumstances, we end up in the field of outdoor/
attention deficit so that there may be more stimuli. Perhaps
environmental education. We are lucky because we got our
consider joining religious groups in the beauty of natural
first job and even though it felt more like fun than work, we
creations. Moving forward using communications and
were good at what we did and it was recognized by others.
indeed personal communication devices, email and social
If we are fortunate enough or passionate enough, we travel.
media. We have to learn, relearn, and reinvent, all the while
These travels may take us across the state and even across the
opening doors to embracing a new future with a more
country and we develop leadership qualities while learning
substantial audience. The right Facebook post, video, email,
from others from and their examples in order to share and
tweet or snap might be the avenue that brings more into our
spread stewardship.
fold. We need to weave our web of networking further and
NYSOEA has been the place to learn, relearn, invent, reinvent further afield into wellness, health, rehabilitation, energy,
and sometimes begin again, all the while weaving a solid web development, sustainability, planning and so much more.
of networking. This close relationship that feels like family is We should reference the past but not be living in it or reliving
ready and willing to share, lift, lend a hand and lead the way. it. We should continue on a path of learning, relearning
Our history is vast and our trailblazers noteworthy. Our award and reinventing as we pay it forward. Remembering our
winners well known and our Board hard working. All this and contributions but extending the means for others to follow,
yet volunteer run. grow and change in order to sustain our survival.
When we gather it is easy to see stand-out individuals, May NYSOEA always be a wonderfully woven web of support
some with larger than life personalities and what seems with the wherewithal to realize that when we welcome the
like encyclopedic knowledge, some that are leaders in unexpected into our fold, some of the greatest successes can
the organization and others volunteering or conducting be achieved.

"...opening doors and a sense of place..."

Written by Flo Mauro
I have been thinking about whether or not I need to write Like many of us, while my career path was not always easy
something reflective about the 50th Anniversary Conference to follow and full of twists and turns, challenges, highs and
and if I do, what do I write about? There was another time lows, I was able to and had the help to find my way back to
I was asked “to reflect” on and write about some things that it. My friend Barry Hopkins (NYSOEA member, award winner
were important to me as an outdoor educator. In 1999, I was and Conference Co-chair) introduced me to Allan Gussow,
NYSOEA’s Gold Award recipient – “…given to individuals who artist, author, and co-founder of the Friends of the Earth and
have demonstrated outstanding leadership, contributed to, an NYSOEA Conference keynote speaker. Alan Gussow’s
and made significant achievements in the field...” - a pretty “Sense of Place” has always resonated with me, has been
significant event. an inspiration to go further in learning more, appreciating
more, connecting more and not simply “play tag”. Sally
At the time I just wondered why? I thought then, and still do, McCracken (NYSOEA Past President, award winner, and
that it is/was simply what I do/did and do not/did not consider mentor) introduced author and educator Lew Losoncy as
it special by any means. Needless to say, I have been at this for the keynote speaker for a Conference in Warrensburg. All he
quite a while and throughout all that time I have never been did was inspire me with the basic tenet for teaching with the
out there on my own. There have always been safety nets simple statement “…have you opened a door for a kid today…”.
and inspirations. The energy, passion and commitment that To me this meant I had the wherewithal and the responsibility
moves me is intrinsic but it didn’t just happen and is certainly to provide opportunities for everyone and anyone I could
not static. It has been (still is) inspired, nurtured, supported, work with –kids-families-colleagues-staff alike to learn. Open
challenged and chastised through all the people I have met, doors ….how simple.
the places I have been, and things I have done along the way.
Doors and opportunities have been opened for me by
While I always knew I wanted to teach and do great things friends, mentors, kids, teachers, family, colleagues, my Maker
with kids, I was pretty disillusioned with my student teaching and some very special loved ones, and for all of them I am
experience and thought that there must be a better way – thankful. My sense of place is and has been nurtured and
there had to be something more. I stuck it out, decided I had nurturing, inspired and inspiring. And I often wonder …
better at least try it, and began my teaching career in 1972 as did I open doors and provide at least one opportunity, did I
an aide in an “alternative” school setting in a classroom of eliminate the barrier and create an atmosphere for kids of all
11-year-old boys, each of whom had a very special, distinct ages, abilities, disabilities, advantages, status or whatever to
and challenging learning style, and I still remember each one succeed and hopefully learn something along the way?
of their names. My very visionary Head Teacher, an Outward-
Bound alum, thought that we might be able to do something It’s been an honor and a privilege to be in this time and place
new and out of the norm for me and these kids and sent me … to call on everything I’ve done and everyone who has
to an Outdoor Education Conference in Margaretville, NY. My inspired me to present the Association’s 50th Anniversary
love affair for teaching outdoors took off. Imagine…..I could Conference. …more importantly, to use the Conference to
use the outdoors to teach science, math, language and more, open the doors, embrace the change, begin the dialogue,
and my kids did not need to know how to read or write to meet the challenges and make the commitments to seek
learn and be successful. Talk about an epiphany! significance, embrace and engage in securing our place the
future.
NYSOEA became a focal point for me and my career from
that very first Conference in 1972 to this Conference in 2018. Thanks everyone!

A 'full house' for the Annual Banquet!
“Stay consistently in the presence of the best

in the sphere in which you seek attainment,
and make an honest response”
Harlan ‘Gold’ Metcalf

(Henry Churchill King)
Diane 'Hubie' Huber, former Board member, Award Winner and

Conference Co-chair, coming to the Conference ...'completes us'... Stream sampling with Kaeti Stoss...

George Steele ... always teaching....
An awesome donation from the Nicandri Center for the auction!!
Book Swaps - what a great idea!
NAAEE's Judy Braus brought it all together for us with her very timely,
thought provoking, fast moving and often humorous remarks in her
Keynote Address on Saturday night.

Forestry Stewardship field trip group at Camp Deerpark
Hubie & Sally...reminiscing of course..
Yea!!!! the 'last table' called for the banquet

John Stowell's hand-made 50th Anniversary ADK chairs were one of our super auction items!
Past President and Cortland alum, Lucinda Hurley and SUNY Cortland Rec
Departmant Chair, Sharon Todd share Raquette Lake stories with Keynote
Rick Glass' 'Dem Bones' worskhop kept folks busy for hours! Speaker and Cortland alum, Bill Hammond
SCA and ECC in the house!

1916 The National Parks Service, is established.

NYSOEA Milestones 1958 Outdoor Education leaders (representing several
& Moments in History SUNY Schools and NYS Education Department)

form a committee to explore need for statewide
organization to guide and promote the growth
of OE. The Western NY Outdoor Education
1849 The U.S. Department of the Interior is Association met in Syracuse…
established. Among its duties (which are so
Group included representatives from Syracuse
diverse that it is nicknamed “the Department
University, SUNY Cortland, Albany, Ithaca,
of Everything Else”) is the management of
Plattsburgh, Buffalo and others.
public parklands. It is now the nation’s main
conservation agency. - Long Island Outdoor Educators group
started up
1859 Henry David Thoreau’s Walden is published, - The Western NY and LI groups published
lamenting the rise of industrialization and the newsletters
destruction of wilderness, raised questions
- Several ‘members’ of these groups/universities
about humans› relationship to nature that still
hosted summer programs for SUNY schools
influence naturalists and political activists 150
years later., “In wildness is the preservation of the - The first Conference for this group was held
world.” (Annual Conference theme 1988) at Sagamore
- Bob Eckert was elected 1st President
1886 The Audubon Society, dedicated to the
protection of birds and their natural habitats, is 1962 Silent Spring by aquatic biologist Rachel
founded by George Grinnell, publisher of Forest Carson exposes the harm caused by insecticides
and Stream magazine. such as DDT. The book leads to the development
of safer insecticides and to a ban on the sale of
1892 Naturalist and writer John Muir co-founds (with DDT within the United States…heightens the
Robert Underwood Johnson) and becomes awareness of ordinary people, who demand
president of the Sierra Club, which is dedicated new legislation aimed at protecting the
to wilderness preservation and outdoor environment—a word that enters common
recreation. parlance around this time.
1894 The NYS Adirondack Park and Forest Preserve is 1964 The exploratory Committee –formed in
declared “forever wild”. ’58-petitioned SUNY Presidents Council to
officially meet and communicate through and
1898 The European-trained forester Gifford with SUNY support.
Pinchot becomes the head of the U.S. Division
of Forestry. Pinchot shapes U.S. conservation 1967 Committee members including Jerry Passer,
policy—and becomes the bane of radicals who George Fuge, John Weeks, Earl Hilfiker, Chip
object to his emphasis on managing, rather than Hunter, Kent Reeves, Ernie Coons and others
preserving, natural resources. officially formed the New York State Outdoor
Education Association…(NYSOEA)
1901- Theodore Roosevelt is the “conservation
1909 president.” During his administration, more than 1968 NYSOEA’s 1st Annual Conference was held at
225 million acres of land become part of the U.S. SUNY Cortland
Forest Service, and approximately 50 wildlife
- George Fuge elected 1st President
refuges and 150 national forests are created
- NYSOEA ‘Regions’ were established using NY
DEC Regions as guidelines

1970 On April 22 Earth has its first official birthday

celebration in the United States.
More than 20 million people marched,
demonstrated, and attend teach-ins
on environmental topics.
- President Nixon forms the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA)
- The Clean Air Act is passed
1972 By-laws and Constitution written, updated

- Communicator Journal for NYSOEA would be
published 3x’s/yr
- Norm Skliar – Editorial Director 1979 Annual Conference joins with Council on
- $10 membership dues Outdoor Education of the American Association
- New address: Box 26, Syracuse NY of Health, Physical Education and Recreation
- Clean Water Act passed to host the National Conference on Outdoor
Education in Lake Placid.
1973 Logo designed, NYSOEA incorporated -1300 participants … (legal situation brewing)
- Regional workshops initiated
1980 NYSOEA engages legal services re issues with
- Jerry Passer established Region X for ‘out of
Lake Placid Resort Hotel
state’ members, known
as ‘…the rest of the world…’ - New office opened in Albany-Lou Ismay hired
- Endangered Species Act passed as manager
- Governor proclaims Outdoor Education Week
Oct 12-19, 1980
1974 New Members Brochure – (membership = 654!)
- Communicator becomes The Outdoor
- ‘Brief History & Services of the Association’ Communicator
written by Charlie Yaple
- Safe Drinking Act passed 1981 Lawsuit settled with Lake Placid Resort Hotel
(financial windfall!)
1975 NYSOEA became affiliate member of the
1982 Roger Tory Peterson highlighted Annual
Environmental Planning Lobby for NYS
Conference
- Student group established
- Directory of Nature Centers, Outdoor Study 1984 1st fundraising campaign launched – net $800.
Areas and EE Centers completed,
- NYSOEA and NYS Environmental Council
printed free for members
announces goal “…each student will acquire
- Best of the Communicator available
knowledge of the ecological consequences of
choices made in the use of the environment
1976 Conference – established scholarships and natural resources…”
for students
- NYS Conservation Council partners w/
NYSOEA for the 1st Summer Teachers Program
- NYS Environmental Voters Guide
published monthly
1977 Members Task Force established

-New ‘Think-About-It’ format
-Constitution amended

NYSOEA Milestones & Moments in History (continued)
1992 ‘Outdoor Connection’ debuts as news bulletin

- Office moved to Blue Mountain Lake
– ADK Museum
- Silver Anniversary Conference held in ADK
- Northeast Field Guide to EE published
– free to members
1993 NYSOEA members placed on the Governor’s

Task Force on EE
- 1st Full Color ‘Pathways’
1985 Coleco Grant provided 2 computers; one each 1994 Governor’s Task Force designs 7 point Action
for the office and the Treasurer Plan for NYS
- Atlantic Richfield Grant of $5k sponsor -Co-sponsored with 2nd Coalition for Education
for the Conference. in the Outdoors for 27th Annual Conference
- Connie and Conrad’ attend their 1st - Office moved to Amsterdam NY … new logo
Annual Conference - 1st Annual Winter Weekend!
1995 The Worldwide Web prompted debates on ‘real

1987 Co-sponsored the Annual Conference with
vs virtual’ experiences…the debate continues…
SUNY Cortland and the newly established
National Coalition for Outdoor Educators
-office moved to Raquette Lake, SUNY Cortland 1996 ‘Pathways’ and ‘Outdoor Connection’ become
Antlers Camp part of TAPROOT (Coalition for Education in the
-Endowment Fund Guidelines established Outdoors publication) for 4x’s/yr
-Annual ‘raffle’ re-established - By-laws re-visited
-The United States is one of 24 nations to sign
the Montreal Protocol, an agreement to phase 1997 30th Annual Conference
out production of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
- 1st ‘Resource Swap’ offered
- Affiliate member staff members establish
1989 By-laws revised establishing ‘term limits’ network for staff exchange and professional
for officers development training opportunities
- Conference site rotations established
1998 Founders Club established
1990 Legislative updates included in monthly - NYSOEA begins publishing Pathways on
newsletters its own
- Mission statement revised, long range plan
initiated
1999 1st Pathways issue devoted entirely to ‘Literature’
1991 Pathways to Outdoor Communication published - Dr. Helen Ross Russell featured
2 x’s/yr; Outdoor Path published 2x’s/yr
- Editorial Boards re-established 2000 NYSOEA workshops & programs align to/with
- New logo NYS Standards
- New term limits established for President at 2 - Pathways ‘single topic’ issues focused on
yrs and President-Elect ‘Standards and OE’ and ‘Partnerships’

2001 Long Range Planning initiated

- Reflections on 9/11 and OE. NYSOEA members,
affiliates and agencies were forced to re-
examine priorities, re-focus on the areas
of their lives that they cherished to gain and
appreciate new perspectives and insights.
- Jean Craighead George honored
- The head of President Clinton’s Forest Service
halts harvesting old-growth timber on
public lands.
- President Bush refuses to sign an international
environmental treaty, the Kyoto Protocol, to
reduce global warming.
2003 NYSOEA.org is up and running!

- College students’ assistance program offers
discounts to attend the annual Conference
- EE Link unveiled 2008 NAAEE publishes guidelines for Environmental
- The National Environmental Education Education that were accepted by the National
Advancement Project – Capacity Building Council of Accreditation of Teacher Education
Component
- the Ashokan Field Campus becomes the
Ashokan Center
2004 Annual Conference held in the summer
- NYSOEA’s ‘List Serve’ phased out
highlighting LI resources
- Diane Huber, Bill Monahan host 1st NYSOEA
Outstanding Entertainer Show at Montauk 2009 DEC Campership program established
Conference - The last printed issue of Pathways
- Executive Summary Published: Teacher - Web site implements ‘Discussion Forum’,
Preparation and EE: Meeting Challenge in NYS ‘Photo Gallery’, and Affiliate Member ‘Events’
posting
2005 Members Survey project initiated - Environmental Literacy Statewide Plan
- Snapper Petta begins ‘Ramblings from underway
Red Hill’ articles - The bald eagle is finally removed from the
- NYSOEA receives EPA’s Environmental Quality endangered species list
Award in the Education Category
2010 NYSOEA partners with NAAEE hosting combined
2006 Richard Louv publishes ‘Last Child in the Woods’
Annual Conference(s) in Buffalo NY!!
prompting an immediate (and positive, pro-
active) reaction and response from private - The EPA celebrates its 40th year.
and public education-related organizations
- Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth is released, 2011 By-laws amended
winning the former VP an Oscar and - Visioning Committee formed
Nobel Prize. - NYSOEA becomes strong advocate
implementing
2007 Pathways Gets a New Look – FULL COLOR Environmental Literacy Plan for NYS
- Office moves to new home at SUNY Cortland - Annual Conference moved from Honors Haven
- 40th Anniversary Conference held Hunter to Villa Roma…due to overbooking at HH
Mountain, co-sponsored with the Mid-Hudson - Tom Chapin performs at Ashokan Winter
Teacher Center, the Ashokan Field Campus Weekend
and the Greater Capital Region Teacher Center. - Statewide public/private ‘downsizing’ efforts
- Diversity Committee is formed affects NYSOEA

NYSOEA Milestones & Moments in History (continued)
2012 Richard Louv publishes ‘Last Child in the Woods’ 2016 5-10 year plan re-visited
prompting an immediate (and positive, pro- - EE week gains popularity with more events
active) reaction and response from private posted on website
and public education-related organizations - Pathways and Communication Committee re
- Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth is released, named Communications & Technology
winning the former VP an Oscar and Committee
Nobel Prize. - Twitter#nysoea2016
- Legacy committee goals: Conference; 1st 50 yrs,
2013 Pathways Gets a New Look – FULL COLOR Home for the Archives; Endowment $100k
- EEAC-NYC partners for Annual Conference
- Office moves to new home at SUNY Cortland
- 40th Anniversary Conference held Hunter
Mountain, co-sponsored with the Mid-Hudson 2017 New Membership packet – testimonials - designed
Teacher Center, the Ashokan Field Campus -50th Anniversary logo designed, Conference site
and the Greater Capital Region Teacher Center. confirmed
- Diversity Committee is formed -SCA Recognition Ceremony held at Annual
Conference
2014 NAAEE publishes guidelines for Environmental -‘ADK Experience’ for members at Raquette Lake
Education that were accepted by the National -iNaturalist launched!
Council of Accreditation of Teacher Education
- the Ashokan Field Campus becomes the 2018 50th Anniversary Conference held at Affiliate
Ashokan Center member center, Greenkill Y in Huguenot NY
- NYSOEA’s ‘List Serve’ phased out - Conference Committee ‘pays it forward’
with fundraising efforts to provide scholarship
2015 DEC Campership program established opportunities for; educators, interns, SCA
- The last printed issue of Pathways ECC members and college students to attend
- Web site implements ‘Discussion Forum’, the Conference
‘Photo Gallery’, and Affiliate Member ‘Events’ - SUNY Cortland to house NYSOEA archives
posting - Endowment reaches $78k
- Environmental Literacy Statewide Plan - Environmental Literacy Plan re-visited
underway
- The bald eagle is finally removed from the 2019 ...TBD...
endangered species list

Brandwein Institute Awards

Brandwein Medal to New York State
Outdoor Education Association
Contact: Keith Wheeler, President Brandwein Institute
814.441.2887 keith@brandwein.org
NYSOEA President Eric Powers receives the $1k donation to the Association's NYSOEA 'Founder', Jerry Passer receives the 2018 Brandwein Institute (BI) Medal
endowment from Brandwein Institute Board of Directors Chairperson, Keith for the Association from his long time friend, NYSOEA member and BI Board
Wheeler as part of the Brandwein Institute's Medal presentation member, Jack Padalino
Greenkill Outdoor Education Center, Huguenot, NY— About the New York State Outdoor Education Association
September 22, 2018 – Today the Brandwein Institute bestowed (nysoea.org)
its highest award, the National Brandwein Medal, to the New A professional membership organization supporting outdoor
York State Outdoor Education Association (NYSOEA). The and environmental education and interpretive services
award is given to individuals and organizations whose focus in New York State since 1968, the New York State Outdoor
is in keeping with Paul and Mary Brandwein’s commitment to Education Association seeks to inspire appreciation of the
education, life-long learning, nature, and community. environment by all people. Through conferences, workshops,
and publications, NYSOEA promotes interdisciplinary life-
The award was presented to NYSOEA Co-Founder Jerry long learning in, for, and about the outdoors.
Passer and President Eric Powers, at the 50th Anniversary
NYSOEA Conference, by Brandwein Institute President Keith About the Brandwein Institute (brandwein.org)
Wheeler and President Emeritus John (Jack) Padalino. The Guided by Paul and Mary Brandwein’s work in science
award is in recognition of the 50 years of outstanding work and conservation education, the Brandwein Institute,
inspiring new generations, regardless of age, to experience, incorporated in1995, is dedicated to the education of all
embrace and love nature first hand. NYSOEA has reached tens learners in recognition of their interdependence with nature
of thousands of New Yorkers, especially children and youth, and responsibility for sustaining a healthful and healing
leading them to take environmental action. environment. The Institute hosts major conferences on
conservation issues and Inspiring New Generations, sponsors
In addition to the Medal, the Brandwein Institute also the Brandwein Lecture each year at the National Science
presented NYSOEA with a check for $1,000 to help further its Teachers Association Annual Meeting, and developed and
endeavors for the next 50 years. maintains the Brandwein Nature Learning Preserve in
Unionville, NY. Programs at the Preserve include Brandwein
Institute Summer Science Camps and Sundays at the Preserve

Thoughts...Letters...Cards...& Emails
One students’ reflection on meeting and ‘connecting’ … there aren’t enough words to adequately thank you and the
with one of NYSOEA’s very special ‘elders’: Conference Committee for the fabulous work that you did
Hi ‘Hubie’ … The squad all got back safely. I just wanted to putting the 50th together. It was a momentous time and you
message you and thank you for being one of the most kind guys captured the significance of it with style and class. Your
and amazing people I have ever met. I aspire and hope to be imaginations must have been working overtime.
someone like you one day and this past weekend at NYSOEA I crept out early Sunday AM as I have a hard time saying good
you helped me realize that I matter. Something that I seem bye. I know you will understand. God only knows if we will all
to struggle with a lot is putting myself down and after the be able to this ever again…Congratulations.
conference I am more motivated than ever to go after what Jerry
I want in life. Thank you for everything, I truly appreciate
you and all your lovely friends that I also got the pleasure of
meeting
Indeed, it was an exceptional and noteworthy event! I cannot
express my gratitude and appreciation in words. To be
… I can’t even begin to put into words what the 50th handed the Brandwein Medal and $1,000 check is a historic
Anniversary/Conference meant to so many of us. You all milestone….during our 50th Anniversary!!!
did am amazing job of planning, including so many and Thank you, Jack and all those involved with this event, as
carrying through to the end of that Sunday…. it will certainly go down in history. And Jack, I will always
I was so glad that I took those extra 4 days to travel through cherish my Audubon print!
the Adirondacks - back to my personal roots. It allowed me Eric Powers
to process all of the memories about NYSOEA and recognize
what an amazing organization it has been for the last 50
years. It definitely was my roots for my love of and teaching
in the outdoors. Outdoor educators are a very special group I just wanted to congratulate you for the wonderful
of people - caring, loving, and willing to share, passionate conference you put together for the 50th Anniversary of
about what they do. It is a very special group of people who NYSOEA. I can’t even begin to imagine the time and effort that
see men and women as equals. went into bringing it all together…. The Greenkill staff were
Many, many people over the years have given of so much amazing especially Hillary who seemed to be everywhere at
time, energy and talents to put us where we are. Can’t let us once!!!
lose the momentum! Bill Monahan
Sally
… You know, when planning all those conferences over

the past years, we always saw all the glitches being on the
Dear Friends,
inside...as a participant at this one, I saw only all the hard
work and the MANY things that touched my heart...a lot of Thank you for a most wonderful Conference. Your hard work
love and comradery. is greatly appreciated.
‘Outdoor Elders’ are the most nonjudgmental group of Being a member since 1978 and attending over 30
people on the planet and my only hope is that the fine work conferences…I so enjoyed being there…and seeing so many
that has been done over the past 50 years can be carried on old friends. The food was fabulous, the workshops too! I look
for the next 50...I came away with the knowledge that “tree forward to next years’ in Fishkill…
huggers” make a great impact on society and will continue Barbara Bosch
to do so... (not so much fun hugging palm trees)
‘Hubie’

Special Thanks
50th Anniversary Conference Sponsors Authors and Artists
Bard College Master’s in Environmental Education Andrew Marotta LLC
The Brandwein Institute Celestrial Charts
In Celebration of the SUNY Cortland Cory Puopolo
Jessica Kratz
Advertisers and Exhibitors Patti Sonnenschein
Acorn Naturalist Midge Monat
Albany Pine Bush Preserve Lucinda Hurley
American Camping Association NY NJ Dorothea Panayotou
The Ashokan Center Tie Deyes
SUNY Cortland
Earthworks Partners
Green Chimneys Environmental Education Advisory Council-NYC
Greenkill Y Outdoor Education & Retreat Center American Nature Study Society
High 5 Adventure Learning Center Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES
NYDEC Education Programs Greenkill Y Outdoor Education & Retreat Center
NYSDEC Fish and Wildlife - Archery in Schools Program The Y
NYS Parks Camp Deerpark
Mohonk Preserve Nassau County BOCES Outdoor & Environmental Education
Moscow Hide and Fur Pocono Environmental Education Center
Nassau BOCES Outdoor & Environmental Education NYS Department Environmental Conservation
Northern Woodlands SUNY Cortland
Nicandri Nature Center SUNY Oneonta
NYS Conservation Council Mohonk Preserve
One Earth Conservation Northern Woodlands
Paul Smith’s College Friends Academy
PEEC – Pocono Environmental Education Center Student Conservation Association
SCA - Student Conservation Association Smitty’s Taxidermy
Sharp Reservation Albany Pine Bush Preserve
Smitty’s Taxidermy Regional Nature Museums PIPC
Taconic Outdoor Education Center
Your Connection to Nature – yc2n
2019 NYSOEA CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENT
On behalf of the 2019 conference committee, we are We hope this conference will give you the tools, network,
pleased to announce that the 51st NYSOEA Conference and inspiration to work toward making programs and
will be held from October 31 to November 3 at Fresh positions in your organization more accessible and
Air Fund’s Sharpe Reservation in Fishkill, NY. This inclusive.
year’s theme “The Outdoors is for Everyone” will offer 2019 will also see a strengthening of the partnership between
a forum for workshop presentations and speakers that NYSOEA and Environmental Education Advisory Council
focus on diversity, access, and inclusion not only at (EEAC) which is the professional network for our field in New
outdoor education programs but also within the field of York City. Through this collaboration, we hope to recruit new
environmental education. The importance of environmental metro region presenters and attendees. If you have ideas
literacy becomes more obvious with every news cycle. or input about the conference, know a workshop presenter
It is imperative for educators to be able to not only teach you think would be perfect to invite, or if you’d like to help
diverse communities but also listen to them about how out with any aspect of conference planning, e-mail us
environmental
Pathways issues intersect with systemic injustice.
Fall 2018 at conferencecommittee2019@nysoea.org 37
The Outside Story:
Chirp, Click, Buzz

Last Call for the Insect Orchestra
Written by Meghan McCarthy McPhaul

This time of year,
I keep the windows cracked open on even marginally warm The buzzing trill I hear from the field beginning with the
nights, savoring the sweet air that sifts through the screens. warmth of mid-day and carrying through late afternoon, is
On that air comes the sound of others relishing the last bit of most likely meadow katydids, although other katydid species
warmth before frost settles in: namely, crickets and katydids. are primarily nocturnal. (These are different than the common
katydid, Pterophylla camellifolia, which makes the namesake
With trills and chirps, clicks and buzzing, these winged buzzy Katy did… Katy didn’t and calls from high up in trees at
insects – all members of the order Orthoptera, along with night.)
grasshoppers – woo potential mates. This music is ancient
– and has been a key to the insects’ survival for some 200 Grasshoppers are still in abundance, too, and go hop-buzzing
million years. away from my careless feet as I walk through the field. They
generally sing their mating songs during the daylight hours,
“It may be noise to you and me,” said Daniel Howard, a biology but their song is much quieter than those of their cricket and
professor at the University of New Hampshire who specializes katydid cousins.
in insect communication, “but it’s a love song.”
Some species of katydids produce such high-frequency
Well, maybe not in a romantic sense, he clarified: “It’s all about sounds that they’re above the hearing even of bats. There’s an
sex and survival.” evolutionary reason for that. “It’s dangerous producing these
sounds, because the insects are also sending out a signal that
Orthopterans produce sounds by rubbing parts of their
other species can hear,” said Howard, noting that bats, rodents,
body together, a process called stridulation. It’s the males (as
and other insects are all potential predators. “You’re making
with most birds and frogs) who are the primary musicians,
yourself conspicuous to something that might want to eat
although females do sometimes respond. Crickets and
you, but the payoff is the continuation of your species.”
katydids stridulate by rubbing the sharp edge of one outer
wing against the ridged edge of the other outer wing – think Some species use more than one song for seduction. After a
of running your finger down the tined edge of a comb – as female cricket has located a suitable male based on the quality
their raised wings vibrate together. Grasshoppers create a of his song, she’ll touch her antennae to his, and he’ll move
similar effect by rubbing a portion of the hind leg against their on to his courtship song, which Howard describes as almost
outer wing. Another similar-but-different characteristic is a purr. If she likes both the initial song and the purr, mating
that katydids and crickets perceive this communication with ensues. Mating may also involve a nuptial gift; in many
tympana – hearing organs – located on their front legs, while species, the male includes with his sperm either secretions or
grasshoppers’ tympana are on their abdomens. a tiny packet of nutrition to help her produce many eggs.
But how does one species – say, a snowy tree cricket – Once mating is completed, the male returns to his music, and
differentiate the buzzes and trills and chirps of its own kind the female moves on to laying her eggs. This she does either
from a landscape of sound? Partly it’s in the timing, partly in in the ground or under the bark of a tree, depending on the
the tone. species. The eggs overwinter, and the nymphs emerge in the
spring, developing through several instars until becoming
“The acoustic environment is a resource, so it gets partitioned,”
sexually mature at the final molting.
explained Howard. He likened the fall insect orchestra to
the spring succession of different frog songs. “This time of Then the songs begin again, a serenade to summer as it fades
year, there are so many things calling at the same time that into fall.
they partition out different parts of the day along with the
frequency spectrum within which they call.” Meghan McCarthy McPhaul is an author and freelance writer.
She lives in Franconia, New Hampshire. The illustration for this
Most of the soundscape this time of the year is occupied by column was drawn by Adelaide Tyrol. The Outside Story is assigned
tree crickets, who are trilling just as it gets dark and well into and edited by Northern Woodlands magazine: northernwoodlands.
the night, with some species chirping robustly at dawn. As org, and sponsored by the Wellborn Ecology Fund of New Hampshire
you’d guess by their name, most tree crickets call from trees, Charitable Foundation: wellborn@nhcf.org. Northern Woodlands is
but some of them set up shop on grasses and shrubs. an Affiliate Member of NYSOEA.

Eastern Phoebe Nest above IS Office door
Bird Wars Written by Sarantia Mitsinikos
The Invasive Species Field Office at Minnewaska State Park We excitedly awaited the arrival of eggs until one day we
gained a new member early this spring. An Eastern Phoebe, checked the nest to find three eggs nestled within. There was
Sayornis phoebe, had begun constructing its nest right above one small white egg and two larger brown-speckled eggs. We
the door to the office. Phoebe, as she shall be called, came at immediately suspected the larger eggs were the additions of
a good time. We were lamenting the unfeasibility of having a Brown-headed Cowbird, Molothrus ater, a known brood
an office cat, despite the solid argument that we would be parasite. Rather than build its own nest for its eggs, female
protecting the birds on the preserve from predation of the Cowbirds lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species,
cat roaming around the office we had come to know as Old neglecting all their parental duties. Oftentimes, the Cowbird
Four-Legs. Nonetheless, we were delighted to have a family of chicks will hatch before those of the host bird’s, growing
birds join the Invasive Species Project Team, especially one of larger and faster than the host chicks and taking resources
the few species that our amateur ornithologist eyes and ears from them. They may even knock the other eggs out of the
could identify. We became even more prideful of our Phoebe nest entirely. A quick search on the internet confirmed that
when we discovered at the NYSOPRHP Stewardship Meeting we had trouble: Cowbirds. I contemplated removing the eggs,
that an Eastern Phoebe was the first bird to be banded in North and eating them if I’m being quite honest. But I had recently
America, by John James Audobon himself! returned from a Leave No Trace Training with the Student

Conservation Association during which I was responsible
for teaching Principle 4, “Leave What You Find,” the
antithesis of what I was proposing. Having the knowledge
that it is illegal to interfere with the nesting of Cowbirds
on public lands, such as a state park, as they are protected
under the Migratory Bird Act, I could not justifiably touch
the eggs. So, I reminded myself it was not my job to be
mama bird, but rather an Invasive Species Project Steward,
and as Cowbirds are not invasive, I resigned to take a step
back and hope for the best for the eggs.
One day we returned from weeks away at various

trainings to find splattered eggs on the welcome mat
and an empty nest. It could have been the Cowbirds,
Old Four-Legs, or any other number of predators. Even
though I may have been able to prevent the loss of the
eggs, who am I to say a Cowbird’s life is any less valuable
than that of the Eastern Phoebe, especially since Phoebes
are not a threatened species. As humans with brains, and
thumbs, and weird gangly limbs, we have the power to
decide what species of plants and animals die or thrive,
and it is up to us to use this power responsibly. I was
always one to advocate that the notion of a weed is an
anthropocentric concept in which a weed is just a plant
growing in an “undesirable” location, as defined by Homo
sapiens. The distinction to be made with invasive species
is that their presence is not just inconvenient to humans,
in fact many of them were introduced intentionally by
humans as ornamentals and escaped, but also damaging
to entire ecological communities due to their ability to
create monocultures and reduce biodiversity. It is at this
point, when ecosystem stability is threatened, that I invite
everyone to intervene. Learn how to identify invasive
species, report or remove them, plant only natives in
your garden, and spread the word! For more information
regarding invasive species, feel free to contact us at
invasives@parks.ny.gov
1 Eastern Phoebe egg (small white)

and 2 Brown-headed Cowbird eggs (larger and speckled)

Off the Shelf Resources
From an Environmental-Oriented Librarian
Written by Fred Stoss, Librarian, SUNY University at Buffalo
EarthEd: Rethinking Education on a Changing Planet
Erik Assadourian and Lisa Mastny. 2017. 370 p.

Washington, D.C.: Island Press.
ISBNs: 1610918428, 9781610918428.
Explores traditional areas of environmental education such

as nature-based learning and systems thinking, as well as
new essential topics including social-emotional learning
and the importance of play. This edition of the State of the
World series examines how, by rethinking education, people
worldwide can better adapt to a rapidly changing planet. --
From publisher description.
Teaching and Learning about Climate Change:

A Framework for Educators.
Daniel P Shepardson; Anita Roychoudhury; Andrew S Hirsch.

2017. 263 p. New York, NY:
Routledge, an imprint of the Taylor & Francis Group.

ISBN: 9781138642614.

Off the Shelf (continued) – For Kids
100 backyard activities that are the dirtiest, coolest,

creepy-crawliest ever!
Become an Expert on Bugs, Beetles, Worms, Frogs, Snakes,

Birds, Plants and More.
Colleen Kessler. 2017. 207 p. Salem, MA: Page Street Publishing

Co. ISBNs: 9781624143731 1624143733.
My Great Outdoors Book: The Kids’ Guide to Being Outside.
Josie Jeffery and Alice V Lickens. 2018. 80 p. London, United

Kingdom: Ivy Kids. ISBNs: 9781782406051, 1782406050
9781544413037, 1544413033.
The young adventurer’s guide to (almost) everything: build

a fort, camp like a champ, poop in the woods--45 action-
packed outdoor activities
Ben Hewitt, Penny Hewitt, and Luke Boushee. 2019 First Edition.

Boulder, CO: Roost Books. ISBNs: 9781611805949 1611805945
101 fun outdoor activities for children: have fun outside!
Fiona Bird. 2018. New York, NY : CICO Books. ISBNs:

9781782495789 1782495789

Non-native Harmonia axyridis ladybug adult Nine-spotted ladybug photographed in Montana by Amanda Crowson.
on green buds. Photo by Tim Stanley Photo courtesy of the Lost Ladybug Project
Citizen
Science
Non-native adult 7-spotted ladybug. Photo by Tim Stanley C9 adult released in Tyler Street Community Garden,
Buffalo, NY. Photo by Leah Tyrrell
New York's
"Lost" Ladybug
Written by Margaret Maruschak
“Goodbye and good luck”, “see you next year”, “stay safe” were University entomologists started the citizen science program,
all well wishes from the children as they released larvae of The Lost Ladybug Project (LLP).
a beloved ladybug. It was an anxious release as the children
hope to re-establish the nine-spotted ladybug at the Fresh All summer long, campers at Sharpe Reservation have their
Air Fund’s Sharpe Reservation farm. What started out as a eyes open for C9. NYSOEA member Tim Stanley, Assistant
citizen science project looking for rare ladybugs has become a Director of Sharpe Reservation and Farm Manager, said
restoration project at the farm in New York’s Hudson Valley. searching for the nine-spotted ladybug is “simple and easy”
for the children and the Lost Ladybug Project is a great
The nine-spotted ladybug, Coccinella novemnotata, also teaching tool. Campers learn the value of native ladybugs on a
known as C9, is New York’s State Insect. C9 is a garden friend farm and how their numbers are on the decline. The children
as it eats aphids and other garden pests. Once very common then talk about the possible reasons for the rise in numbers of
across North America, C9 is now rarely seen. Non-native non-native ladybug species.
ladybug species (Harmonia and seven-spotted ladybug)
numbers have grown exponentially and now those two Although the LLP is very popular with children, Dr. Rebecca
species are the most common ones seen in the United States. Smyth, a Cornell entomologist with the Lost Ladybug Project,
In an effort to find out where the C9 ladybugs still live, Cornell said a great many adults also participate. Ladybug searchers

Reinstein Woods Summer Camp release C9 larvae. Photo by Paul Bigelow Leah Tyrrell release of C9 at the Buffalo Zoo Heritage Farm. Photo by Paul Bigelow
were so enthusiastic about wanting to help the nine-spotted life cycles and species identification. She explains that after
ladybug that the LLP created the Lost Ladybug Rescue in 2016. children learn about the struggles of the C9, a larvae release
As a conservation project, scientists raise C9 larvae and adults can be quite emotional as the children often hold them in
in the laboratory and sell them for release in New York State. their hands and say “I don’t want to let them go; I want to take
Sharpe Reservation, a NYSOEA Affiliate in Fishkill, NY, fit the care of them”. The summer camp children at Reinstein Woods
preferred habitat criteria: organic farming, diverse variety of will continue to search for ladybugs in the future and hope to
plants, and areas that are not mowed. The farm also borders report newly established C9 on the property.
a wildlife refuge that adds to the restoration habitat. The
summer campers at Sharpe Reservation will be observing Tyrrell shared the story of how excited she herself was when
for years to come to see if the C9 has been restored on the she re-discovered a rare two-spotted ladybug in Buffalo in
property. 2009. It was the first to be found in several decades and the
LLP scientists were ecstatic about this urban find. Tyrell uses
Summer campers at NYSOEA Affiliate Reinstein Woods Nature her stories of this discovery in her outreach with children in
Preserve in Depew, NY, near Buffalo, also recently released Buffalo, illustrating that they, too, could find a rare species in
nine- spotted ladybug larvae and adult beetles. Reinstein their small urban green spaces as she did.
Woods intern Leah Tyrrell is a long-time participant of
the LLP and said it is an excellent citizen science project Participation in the Lost Ladybug Project is simple. Observers
for people of all ages and abilities. Ladybugs can be found take pictures of all ladybugs and send them to the LLP by
in all kinds of habitats that are accessible even to people uploading photos to the website. LLP emphasizes that they
with limited mobility. Tyrrell uses ladybugs to teach about also want to know when participants search and do not find
ladybugs. All data is very important to help scientists map the
current ranges of both native and non-native ladybugs.
The Lost Ladybug Project is always looking for citizen

scientists to search for the nine-spotted and other rare
native ladybugs. To learn more, visit lostladybug.org and
lostladybugrescue.com. The Lost Ladybug website contains
extensive teaching resources, including lesson plans, in
addition to tips on photographing ladybugs and submitting
data and pictures.
References:
lostladybug.org last accessed 9/30/18
lostladybugrescue.com last accessed 9/23/18
Larva released at the Sharpe Reservation farm, shown with aphids.

Photo by Tim Stanley

Naturally Poetic:
The Argrarian
He stood as a silhouette against the skies
as he watched the land with enlightened eyes.
To the west he saw a fertile plain
and to the east an approaching rain.
How wonderful he thougt if I might combine

the rains of heaven and these lands of mine.
in such a way that they will grow
the seeds of time that men will sow.
New Feature The land the host, the rain a welcomed guest;
Spotlight on shall I be he who performs this test?

With plow in hand and bag of seed
he left the hill to attempt the deed.
Citizen Science Along the way he thought of how

he'd make the rains assist the plow, and from the land
buld wealth and fame
Citizen science, or public participation in science
so man and beastt would know his name.
research, is nearly everywhere these days. Over
the course of the next few issues of Pathways,
we will take a closer look at initiatives NYSOEA But what made him so great a man
affiliates and members throughout New York State that he alone could set the plan
are involved in, as well as emerging and evolving for such a thing so great and fine
connections between citizen science and various that it could stand the test of time?
segments of society. From Scouts to Seniors, from
feeder birds to ladybugs, there are initiatives—and
Jerry E. Passer
insights—for everyone, and we look forward to
sharing them with you as the seasons and
stories unfold. Note: This was inspired by my work at Cornell University
in both the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences and the
If you are a NYSOEA member or work for a Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research during the
NYSOEA Affiliate and would like to submit your late 70's and early 80's.
story about involvement in Citizen Science,
During that time I was frequently exposed to the
we want to hear from you! Please email us at
incredible plant research that was being performed by
nysoea@gmail.com.
their outstanding scientists not only in NYS, but in many
The Citizen Science article for this issue is foreign countries as well. It was during that time that I
“New York’s Lost Ladybug” on p. 44. gained deep insight into the world of the farmers, their
plight and determination.
Their succes, above all, depends upon the will of GOD.

Teacher
Tips

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PATHWAYS

Official Publication of the New York State Outdoor Education Association

11 Flash and Photo Tips

Graphic Designer 22 The Conference, Outdoor Education at its Best

Cover Photo courtesy of Erica Schwabach

2 Pathways Fall 2018

So now, as we move towards winter, hibernation, migration,

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4 Photo courtesy of Jessica Kratz Pathways Fall 2018

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Back row, (L-R):

Front row, (L-R):

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Housed in a reconstructed 200-year-old historic church,

Student programs and research

High school students conduct scientific research projects,

Director of Education Collin Martin, new to Westmoreland

Pathways Fall 2018 Pathways Fall 2018 9

A new and popular public event series, “Conservation, Wine,

Twice a year, Hudson Valley Orienteering brings sanctioned

The Westmoreland Center staff is dedicated to partnering

10 Pathways Fall 2018

INDOORS OUTDOOR non-flash al-

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12 Illustration by Wayne Trimm Pathways Fall 2018

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1982 1983 1984 1985

1995 1999 2001 2003

2006 2007 2014 2018

Reflections on NYSOEA '18

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The NYSOEA 50th Anniversary Conference:

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2018 NYSOEA Award Winners

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2018 NYSOEA Award Winners

Outdoor Educator Award

Outdoor Educator Award

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2018 NYSOEA Award Winners

Outdoor Educator Award

He is a NYS Licensed Guide, Project WET/WILD d Facilitator Trainer, and

20 Pathways Fall 2018

2018 NYSOEA Award Winners

Environmental Impact Award

Tirelessly speaking to legislators and community groups, teaching educators

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natural world and help educators strengthen their own sense

It was inspiring to be at an incredible gathering of the past,

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Being a Part of History

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"...opening doors and a sense of place..."

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A 'full house' for the Annual Banquet!

“Stay consistently in the presence of the best

Harlan ‘Gold’ Metcalf

Diane 'Hubie' Huber, former Board member, Award Winner and

26 Pathways Fall 2018

George Steele ... always teaching....