Annual Conference

MEEA invites environmental educators, both formal and non-formal, as well as students, to attend and present at our longest-running professional development event – the MEEA Annual Conference. Each year, our conference travels across the state, ensuring access to this vital opportunity in Montana’s diverse communities.

The Annual Conference offers a variety of networking opportunities, professional development sessions, and valuable insights into environmental education programs and initiatives throughout the state. While attending, be sure to visit our EE organization exhibitors and explore the silent auction, which supports the Get ‘Em Outside Mini-Grant program.

2025 MEEA Conference in Helena, Montana

MEEA is excited to announce our 2025 Annual Conference, happening at Carroll College in Helena, Montana, from March 7-9. Join us for our 33rd Annual Conference, centered around the theme Roots of Tomorrow. This year, we’ll come together to share ideas, stories, and insights that explore the critical issues shaping the future of our planet.

Educators, community leaders, and environmental advocates will unite in support of MEEA’s ongoing mission to advance environmental education throughout Montana.

We’re offering a range of engaging experiences designed to spark collaboration, learning, and action. Whether you’re attending for the first time or have been a long-time supporter, we can’t wait to connect, collaborate, and engage in meaningful conversations that will help nurture the roots of a more sustainable future.

REGISTRATION & CONFERENCE SITE

2025 MEEA Helena Conference Overview

Friday Evening: Screening of Bring Them Home at The Myrna Loy

The screening begins at 7:00 PM, with a private reception at 5:30 PM. Conference attendees will have a reserved seat for this special event.

As part of the 2025 MEEA Conference, we are excited to present a special screening of Bring Them Home, a compelling documentary narrated by acclaimed actress Lily Gladstone. This powerful film highlights environmental and cultural issues that are deeply connected to the future of our planet, aligning with our conference theme, Roots of Tomorrow. Brought to you by MEEA and Thunderheart Media, the screening at The Myrna Loy on Friday night offers an opportunity to reflect on the importance of preserving our roots—both cultural and environmental—while inspiring us to take action for a sustainable future.

Watch the Bring Them Home trailer here!

Included in the conference, participants have reserved seating for Friday night’s film. This special event is open to the public, and additional tickets can be purchased through The Myrna Loy’s website. We encourage everyone to join us for this impactful evening, whether you’re attending the conference or supporting the cause! 

Saturday: Concurrent Sessions, Keynote Speaker Nick Mott & Social

Sessions & Keynote
Location: Carroll College, All Saints Hall. Detailed schedule below.

Evening Social: Join the MEEA board for a casual celebration at Lewis & Clark Brewery. We invite you to relax, unwind, and celebrate the conference with us!

Sunday: Field Trips

Explore the Helena area with three unique field trip options:

  • Snowshoe Hike at Rodney Ridge (9:30 AM – 12:00 PM) – Join Liz Burke (USFS) for an educational snowshoe trek exploring the FireWorks Curriculum.
    • Location: Old Shooting Range Trailhead. Snowshoes & snacks provided.
  • Sevenmile Outdoor Classroom Walk (9:30 AM – 12:00 PM) – Take a 2-mile guided hike with Prickly Pear Land Trust to learn about floodplain restoration.
    • Location: Sevenmile Creek Project Area. No restrooms on-site, snacks provided.
  • Montana WILD Tour & Archery (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM) – Visit Montana WILD’s interactive exhibits, then try archery with Ryan Schmaltz.
    • Location: 2668 Broadwater Ave. Snacks provided.

Conference Program

If you need any assistance with your registration, contact Naomi at mtmeeatreasurer@gmail.com.

Sponsor the 2025 Conference

Wide shot of the annual conference at the University of Montana

The Montana Environmental Education Association invites you to partner with us in building valuable connections among environmental educators throughout Montana. View our partnership packet for opportunities.

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Quotes from previous conference attendees:

“The MEEA conference is consistently one of the best professional development opportunities I participate in. Networking opportunities in Montana for environmental, outdoor, conservation, and place-based educators are few and far between, so the MEEA conference is critical to sustaining and advancing what we all do!”

“As a classroom teacher and nonprofit outdoor educator/ecologist, MEEA’s conference allows me to step back, reflect and put into focus what’s really important in my practice – the process of seeking to understand the people and places that I serve and call home.”

“So many amazing speakers, so much incredible information and resources, and such a great opportunity to connect and network!”

“The MEEA Conference is such a great way to connect with the Environmental Education network across Montana. I truly value the time spent learning new skills, increasing my awareness and meeting a diverse group of providers. You are my people!”

“I value the MEEA conference because it helps me be a continual learning. I really appreciated this year’s conference and how relevant all the presentations were. I enjoying connecting and hearing from experts in this field and related fields. Thanks for this opportunity!!!”