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SUNY ESF Puts Focus on the Future at the NYS Fair

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Aug. 26, 2026 – The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) puts the focus on the future at the New York State Fair. The College is bringing 10 days of interactive STEM-focused activities highlighting environmental science, engineering, natural resources and chemistry.

From Aug. 26 to Sept. 4, fairgoers can jump into interactive exhibits, meet the scientists and students working to improve our world, and discover what the future holds.

Find ESF in the State Park at the Fair, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., where you can:

  • Make paper and seed balls
  • Try out chemistry experiments
  • Learn how to live more sustainably
  • Learn about invasive species
  • Hear about the comeback of the American chestnut tree
  • See specimens from the Roosevelt Wild Life Collection

"The New York State Fair gives ESF a unique opportunity to share the science that is shaping our future with people from every corner of the state," said ESF President Joanie Mahoney. "Through hands-on activities and conversations with our students and faculty, visitors can see how environmental science, engineering, and innovation are helping solve real-world challenges. We hope to inspire curiosity, empower the next generation of problem-solvers, and help New Yorkers better understand the important role they play in creating a more sustainable future."

ESF’s experts will also be on hand to answer questions and provide information for interested prospective students and families.

Include ESF in your State Fair plans:

Wednesday, Aug. 26 – Work a giant puzzle of the Lake Ontario watershed made with satellite imagery

Thursday, Aug. 27 – Learn how to live sustainably and shape a greener future

Friday, Aug. 28 – Craft your own paper and learn about chemical and environmental engineering

Saturday, Aug. 29 – See how ESF researchers and students are using science to create a better future

Sunday, Aug. 30 – Dive into chemistry with hands-on activities

Monday , Aug. 31 – Learn how ESF is restoring an iconic tree to the landscape

Tuesday, Sept. 1 – Check out research tools for studying wildlife and forest communities, and learn about ESF’s northern properties

Wednesday, Sept. 2 — Jump in to multisensory activities for scientific exploration

Thursday, Sept. 3 – Make seed balls to help pollinators thrive, and see specimens from the Roosevelt Wild Life Collection

Friday, Sept. 4 – Discover cool ways to protect our lakes and rivers

About SUNY ESF

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.