ESF and The MOST Inspire the Next Generation of Environmental Changemakers at Summer Science Week

07/13/2026

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – July 13, 2026 – From conducting hydrology experiments and making paper at SUNY ESF to exploring the Onondaga Lake Visitor Center, students attending ESF Summer Science Week will experience environmental science in action July 20–24. Campers will also participate in an urban bioblitz and scavenger hunt, engaging directly with local ecosystems and sustainability initiatives throughout Central New York.

Presented in partnership with The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST), the immersive camp offers rising ninth graders a week of hands-on discovery, exploration, and real-world learning.

“One of the best ways to spark a lifelong interest in science is to connect students directly with the people, places, and projects shaping their communities,” said ESF President Joanie Mahoney. “SUNY ESF Summer Science Week combines exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning to show students how environmental science impacts their daily lives and how they can be part of building a more sustainable future. We are grateful to continue this partnership with the MOST to create these meaningful experiences.”

“The MOST is proud of the long-term partnership we’ve built with ESF and President Mahoney for our annual Summer Science Week camp. Nothing prepares the next generation for careers in sustainability and environmental fields better than hands-on, experiential learning,” said Lauren Kochian, The MOST president. “This year’s participants have the unique opportunity to learn how our municipalities, private companies, and community organizations are working together to keep our natural resources safe, and how they can be a part of improving the world around them. We welcome all of our campers and thank our sponsors and participating organizations who help make this free experience happen every year.”

Originally launched over a decade ago to spotlight the cleanup of Onondaga Lake and its watershed, the camp has grown into a premier opportunity for students to gain field experience and build foundational skills in inquiry, observation, and problem-solving — both in the lab and outdoors.

Throughout the week, students will explore local natural and built environments, examining sustainability, environmental engineering, and climate solutions in the Syracuse area. Campers will have the learning opportunities at the Skä•noñh Great Law of Peace Center in Liverpool, the Reworld Waste to Energy facility in Jamesville, the Otisco Lake Water Treatment Plant. Most of the camp takes place outdoors, encouraging students to engage directly with the environment.

The week concludes with an end-of-camp celebration and career fair introducing students to the wide range of environmental careers on Friday, July 24 at 4 p.m.

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.

The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST)

The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST) is a hands-on science and technology museum located in historic Armory Square in downtown Syracuse. The MOST is focused on dynamic science education that engages learners of all ages and abilities. It features 35,000 square feet of interactive permanent and traveling exhibits plus the state-of-the-art National Grid ExploraDome theatre. The museum operates numerous STEM education programs and community outreach events throughout the year. The MOST's mission is to provide informal science learning experiences that ignite curiosity, encourage discovery, and inspire investigation. The MOST is open from 9:30 to 5, Thursday through Sunday, and is open for most school holidays and breaks. To learn more, visit most.org.