At PA BROOKIES, the brook trout serves as a springboard to learn about biology, stream ecology, habitat, watersheds, and coldwater conservation. After field school, armed with knowledge, leadership skills, and the support of Academy staff, students return to their communities to serve as Conservation Ambassadors.
Below are a few highlights of the PA Brookies field school curriculum.
FLY FISHING
Students are mentored on how cast a fly rod and get an evening to try their hand at what they learned.
MACRO COLLECTIONS
Students collect, identify, and learn about the role of macroinvertebrates as indicators of stream quality.
TROUT DISSECTION
Students explore trout anatomy and diseases through dissections led by fisheries biologists.
FLY TYING
Students engage with professionals to learn the art of tying their own fly!
HABITAT CONSTRUCTION
Students work with Trout Unlimited to build modified mud sills which enhance stream habitats, creating safe spaces for wildlife and supporting healthy aquatic ecosystems.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Students build and develop their leadership skills and communication styles by engaging in mock town hall meetings, group presentations, and team building exercises.
AFTER FIELD SCHOOL
Students return home and engage, educate, and inspire others through outreach projects. Combining their knowledge with what they learned at field school, students build their skills and network by choosing and completing projects that further their educational and career goals. The Academy is here to support them every step of the way!
Explore some more!
Browse through the highlight videos below to explore the ins and outs of field school!
PA BROOKIES
DETAILS
FIELD SCHOOL DATES
July 7-11, 2026
FIELD SCHOOL LOCATION
Madisonburg, PA
Tuition
$600
*Scholarship support available
At PA BROOKIES, the brook trout serves as a springboard to learn about biology, stream ecology, habitat, watersheds, and coldwater conservation. After field school, armed with knowledge, leadership skills, and the support of Academy staff, students return to their communities to serve as Conservation Ambassadors.
Below are a few highlights of the PA Brookies field school curriculum.
FLY FISHING
Students are mentored on how cast a fly rod and get an evening to try their hand at what they learned.
MACRO COLLECTIONS
Students collect, identify, and learn about the role of macroinvertebrates as indicators of stream quality.
TROUT DISSECTION
Students explore trout anatomy and diseases through dissections led by fisheries biologists.
FLY TYING
Students engage with professionals to learn the art of tying their own fly!
HABITAT CONSTRUCTION
Students work with Trout Unlimited to build modified mud sills which enhance stream habitats, creating safe spaces for wildlife and supporting healthy aquatic ecosystems.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Students build and develop their leadership skills and communication styles by engaging in mock town hall meetings, group presentations, and team building exercises.
AFTER FIELD SCHOOL
Students return home and engage, educate, and inspire others through outreach projects. Combining their knowledge with what they learned at field school, students build their skills and network by choosing and completing projects that further their educational and career goals. The Academy is here to support them every step of the way!
Explore some more!
Browse through the highlight videos below to explore the ins and outs of field school!
Are you ready to take the next step?
Apply today to become a Conservation Ambassador !