Tributary Connections: Susquehanna River to the Bay
Open to rising 9th-12th graders in DC, MD, PA, VA. Please note, although this course is open to students from across the watershed, this expedition will start and end in Pennsylvania.

The Susquehanna River contributes nearly 50% of the freshwater entering the Chesapeake Bay on a daily basis. Known as ‘the Mother River’, the Susquehanna is a vital tributary impacting ecosystems and communities further downstream. Join fellow high school students for an action-packed week of exploration on and along the waters of the mighty Susquehanna as well as the Bay itself. We will spend two days canoeing and hiking along the river before traveling to the Karen Noonan Environmental Education Center located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Participants will learn from experts who are working to restore ecosystems throughout the watershed, as well as paddle, wade, discuss, experiment, listen, share, and connect, all while further developing their environmental leadership skills. 

Length & Location: This five-day event is in-person and overnight (tent camping in Pennsylvania and dormitory-style housing at CBF’s Karen Noonan Environmental Education Center).

Starting & Ending Points: Choose the location nearest to you - Harrisburg, PA or Columbia, PA.

Orientation: A virtual orientation will take place June 4, 2025, from 4-5 p.m. A recording will be made available for those who are unable to attend. 

Service-Learning Hours: Upon successful course completion, participants will earn at least 10 service-learning hours.

Cost: All transportation, lodging, and meals will be provided during the expedition. Participation will be determined on a first come, first served basis. 

• EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION for Pennsylvania students: Pennsylvania students can register early at a reduced rate of $250. Enter “1” next to the Early Bird ticket on the following registration page. Financial assistance is available. Apply using this form. Early bird registration extended to April 18, 2025.
• Standard Registration: If you are not a Pennsylvania student, registration opens January 15. Generous support from CBF donors and grants allow us to offer this weeklong expedition for $500. As of March 11, 2025, all the standard registration tickets have been purchased. Please, join the waitlist for this course. Financial assistance is available. Apply using this form.

Cancelation Policy: Cancellations made before June 1 will receive a full refund minus a $75 processing fee. No refunds will be granted after June 1; however, we are happy to transfer registration to another expedition, based on availability. All cancellation and transfer requests must be made in writing and sent to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Registration closes May 23,2025.
Return to the Student Leadership Summer Expedition web page

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