Join MAEOE in Flint, Michigan, for our 2026 Annual Conference. Flint’s history is a powerful study of the American Industrial Revolution; as the "Vehicle City," it was the birthplace of General Motors and once served as a global hub of manufacturing. However, this industrial peak also left behind a complex environmental legacy. By gathering here, we recognize that Flint is not just a location on a map but a national beacon for community resiliency. We are excited to be in Flint to showcase the incredible strength of a community that has turned a water crisis into a global movement for environmental justice and transparency. Our presence here is a celebration of the stewards, educators, and residents who are actively rewriting the city’s future through science and grassroots action.
Beyond its storied history, Genesee County offers a rich ecological landscape that serves as a premier destination for outdoor education. The Flint River itself is currently undergoing a massive naturalization process, including the removal of the Hamilton Dam to open up 25 miles of waterways for fish passage, such as walleye and lake sturgeon, for the first time in a century. This restoration is the centerpiece of Michigan’s newest State Park, the 104th in the system and the first of its kind in the county. For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum further distinguishes the region with its famous barrier-free treehouse and a "living history" bird museum dating back to the Civil War. Furthermore, Flint is the birthplace of the Flint River GREEN program, a pioneer in student-led water quality monitoring since 1989. For any environmental educator, being in Flint means standing at the intersection of history and innovation, where the lessons of the past are actively fueling the restoration of our natural world.
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Call for Presentation Proposals
Presentation proposals for breakout sessions, workshops, and field experiences are currently being accepted. Learn more Presentation proposals accepted through May 1
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Scholarship Opportunities
MAEOE is proud to offer scholarships to assist educators and college students in attending the 2026 Annual Conference.
Learn more Scholarship applications open through June 30
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Schedule of Events and Locations
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Thursday, October 1 (Pre-Conference)
- Workshops: Ligon Outdoor Center at 5213 East Farrand Road, Clio, MI 48420
- Field Experiences: TBD at various locations
- Community Service Project: TBD
- Welcome Reception for Special Groups: TBD
Friday, October 2
Saturday, October 3Sunday, October 4- Coffee with the Board Annual Meeting of the MAEOE Membership: For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum at 2142 N. Genesee Road, Burton, MI 48509
- Field Experiences and Workshops: TBD at various locations
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Conference Hotel Block
MAEOE has reserved a hotel block at the Hilton Garden Inn, just across the street from the main conference venue! Conference attendees can reserve rooms Thursday, October 1 through Sunday October 4 at the negotiated rate of $144/night. Multiple room types are available including mobility and hearing accessible options. Hotel parking is an additional fee - valet with in/out privileges. To reserve a room from the conference block, use the "Book Now" button:
Hilton Garden Inn 110 W. Kearsley Street, Flint, MI 48502 Book Now
Book early to secure your room. The room block closes on Thursday, September 10 at 5:00 p.m. EDT, or until full.
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UM-Flint Residence Hall Guest Housing
MAEOE is currently working with UM Flint Office of Housing & Residential Life to offer conference attendees overnight accommodations on campus. The residence hall is attached to the Riverfront Conference Center and rooms are set up suite style with each having a kitchenette, living space, and bathroom. Check back for more details.
Additional Hotel Information
Please visit Explore Flint & Genesee’s website to view alternative lodging options in the area.
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Camping
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of several nearby camping opportunities, offering a relaxing way to unwind and enjoy Michigan’s natural beauty during the conference.
Please visit the following Genesee County and Michigan State Park websites for details and to make your own reservations.
Genesee County Park Campground There is a $10/vehicle daily visitor fee. Genesee County Parks are currently taking reservations for 2026. Wolverine Campground 7698 N. Baxter Rd., Columbiaville, MI 48421 - Approximately 27 minutes northeast of Riverfront Conference Center
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Michigan State Park Campgrounds
A Recreation Passport (park pass) is required for vehicle entry into all state park and forest campgrounds. MI State Parks begins taking reservations 6 months prior to the first night of your stay.
Holly State Recreation Area
8100 Grange Hall Road, Holly, MI, 48442
- Approximately 22 minutes southeast of Riverfront Conference Center
Seven Lakes State Park
14390 Fish Lake Road, Holly, MI, 48442
- Approximately 26 minutes south of Riverfront Conference Center
Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area
3871 Herd Road, Metamora, MI, 48455
- Approximately 28 minutes east of Riverfront Conference Center
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MAEOE Members Exclusive: Conference Book Club
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