2023 Annual Summit

August 21-25 at The Ecology School in Saco, Maine

THE ANCA ANNUAL SUMMIT provides the unique experience of connecting with other nature and environmental learning center administrators in person. There is no better way to discuss and share your questions, challenges, and lessons learned than directly with your peers at this empowering event.

"Absolutely amazing. I came away energized with new ideas, new contacts, and a sense of community and support!"

— 2022 Summit Participant

An aerial view of The Ecology School as the sun sets in the top-right corner. A river bends in the bottom-right corner.An aerial view of The Ecology School's campus in Saco, Maine.

About the Summit

The Ecology School

The 2023 ANCA Annual Summit will take place in person at The Ecology School, an outdoor school that transforms how people think about science, food, the environment, and themselves through joyful, hands-on learning for all ages. The Ecology School operates from its campus at River Bend Farm, a historic 105-acre farm located on a scenic bend in the Saco River, just twenty minutes from the Maine coast. The campus features an agroecology farm and buildings designed to meet the Living Building Challenge, so that visitors can directly explore sustainable living practices, food systems, and ecosystem conservation.

More About The Ecology School

Programs

In the variety of Summit programs, you can connect with peers and experts in a supportive learning environment, while also building a network of professional relationships that will strengthen your work throughout the year.

Learn More About Programs 

Do you want to lead a Facilitated Discussion or Workshop at the Summit? Learn about submitting a program proposal here.

Lodging

Built to the highest standards of sustainable construction as part of the Living Building Challenge, The Ecology School's Dormitory immerses participants in a restful forest setting near the beautiful Saco River. From the Dormitory all of River Bend Farm is immediately available, with over three miles of trails, a one-acre sustainable farm, and a waterfront on the Saco River to explore.

If you choose to stay at a location other than River Bend Farm, we encourage you to book your stay as soon as possible — coastal Maine is a popular destination in August, and lodging availability will be competitive.

Learn more about lodging

FAQs

Curious about the Summit? Here are some frequently asked questions about the event.

Still have questions? Email ANCA Membership & Programs Coordinator Daniel Auer at .

Sponsorship

Do you have a business that would benefit from engaging with Summit participants? We offer a variety of sponsor packages through which you can support the nature center field while building brand awareness and marketing leads among decision-makers at organizations throughout North America.

More about Sponsorship


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