Tributary & Bay Ecosystems Exploration - Summer 2026

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 Maryland.

Rivers and streams in the Chesapeake Bay watershed are home to vibrant and dynamic ecosystems, areas that are essential to the work being done to save the Bay. Join fellow high school students for an action-packed week of exploration on and along major tributaries as well as the Bay itself. We will spend two days canoeing, boating, and hiking along rivers before traveling downstream to the Chesapeake Bay. Participants will learn from experts who are working to restore and improve water quality throughout the watershed, gain hands-on, real-world experience, and further develop their environmental leadership skills. This opportunity is perfect for students interested in environmental science, biology, history, and outdoor recreation.

• Length & Location: This five-day event is in-person and overnight, which includes tent camping in MD and PA. CBF provides tents. All other necessary gear will be listed on the packing list.
• Starting & Ending Points: Annapolis, MD.
• Orientation: A virtual orientation will take place June 3, 2026, from 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. A recording will be made available for those who are unable to attend. 
• Service-Learning Hours: Upon successful expedition completion, participants will earn at least 10 service-learning hours. Participants must provide their school’s required documentation during or after the expedition to receive hours.
• Cost: Generous support from CBF donors and grants allow us to offer our weeklong expeditions for $650. The actual cost of running these expeditions is more than $2000 per participant. Financial aid is available. Request partial or full financial aid using the financial assistance request form. All transportation, lodging, and meals are provided during the expeditions.
• Cancellation 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 course, based on availability. All cancellation requests must be made in writing using this cancellation form.

Registration closes Friday, May 22, 2026.

Return to the Student Leadership Summer Expedition webpage.

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