BLM Northeastern States District Staff Connect Youth with Public Lands at Midwest Outdoor Heritage Education Expo

Staff from the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Northeastern States District recently participated in the Midwest Outdoor Heritage Education Expo (MOHEE), an annual hands-on outdoor education event that connects students with natural resources, conservation, and outdoor recreation. 

Hosted by the Outdoor Heritage Education Center at Havenwoods State Forest in Milwaukee, MOHEE brings together educators, conservation organizations, public land agencies, volunteers, and outdoor recreation professionals to provide immersive learning experiences for students in grades 4–7. The event introduces youth to outdoor skills, natural resource stewardship, wildlife conservation, and recreation through interactive stations and demonstrations. 

BLM staff engaged with hundreds of students throughout the event, sharing information about public lands, natural resource careers, native plants and pollinators, and the importance of stewardship. Students also participated in hands-on activities, including native seed planting and agency trivia. 

“Our participation in MOHEE helps connect young people with the outdoors in a meaningful and memorable way,” said Natural Resource Specialist Nikki Carter with the Northeastern States District. “Events like this help foster the next generation of public land stewards and introduce students to the many ways they can enjoy and care for natural resources.” 

District staff also highlighted the agency’s multiple-use mission and described how the BLM manages public lands for recreation, conservation, and resource sustainability. The expo supports the BLM’s commitment to expanding outdoor access, promoting natural resource education, and engaging youth on public lands. 

Organized annually by the Outdoor Heritage Education Center, MOHEE provides free educational opportunities for participating schools and students. Natural resource professionals, conservation educators, and trained volunteers lead activities that help students build lifelong outdoor skills while learning about stewardship and Wisconsin’s outdoor heritage. 

For more information about the Midwest Outdoor Heritage Education Expo, visit the Outdoor Heritage Education Center website.