Environmental Education
Inspiring curiosity, connection, and stewardship through hands-on environmental education in the Penns Creek Watershed.
PVCA Environmental Education
Connecting People to Place Through Learning
At PVCA, we believe that meaningful education happens outdoors, in the places we live, work, and play. Our environmental education programs are rooted in the Upper Penns Creek Watershed and guided by a mission to foster a deeper understanding of the natural world through place-based, experiential, and service learning opportunities.
Our Perspective
We approach education with the belief that everyone has something to learn—and something to teach. Every encounter with nature offers a moment to grow. Whether it’s a student observing a stream for the first time or a community member learning to plant a riparian buffer, our goal is to make those moments accessible and impactful.
Our Focus
While PVCA’s education efforts began in the Penns Valley Area School District, they’ve grown to include:
In-school environmental programming
Outdoor classroom experiences
Teacher support and curriculum integration
Community workshops
Public events
Project-based and service learning opportunities
Our Partners
Collaboration is key to our success. We proudly work with local organizations, educators, conservation professionals, and volunteers to deliver thoughtful and engaging programming. These partnerships help us amplify our impact and connect Penns Valley residents to the tools and knowledge they need to care for their environment.
Our Environmental Educator
Sarah DePasquale
We are a small nonprofit doing big work. To the best of our knowledge, we’re the only conservation organization funding an environmental educator in a local school district.
Sarah is passionate about fostering meaningful connections between people and the ecosystems they inhabit. A long-time member and contributor to PVCA, she is delighted to bring her experience as an ecologist and facilitator to the position of Environmental Educator and Coordinator.
Learn More or Get Involved
Interested in bringing PVCA’s environmental education to your classroom, event, or community group?
We’d love to connect.
Join Our Conservation Efforts
Become a part of our mission to protect Penns Valley’s natural resources. Your involvement can make a significant difference in preserving our environment for future generations.
Environmental Non-profit Organizations
American Farmland Trust
Clearwater Conservancy
Environmental Fund for Pennsylvania (EFP)
Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR)
The Pennsylvania Native Plant Society
Spring Creek Chapter of Trout Unlimited
Watershed Weekly (after Sept.12)
Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture
Pennsylvania Certified Organic
Regional Web Resources
CentreConnect
Nemesis Bird (from spring 2014 public meeting)