2026 MESTA Conference
It’s time for the 39th annual Minnesota Earth Science Teachers’ Association conference!Date: Friday, February 6, 2026
Time: 7:45 am - 3:00 pm Location: District 287 Conference Center. 1820 N. Xenium Ln, Plymouth, MN 55441 Keynote Speaker, Break-out Sessions, Activity Share, Free Resources, Breakfast and Lunch included Hotel Accommodations: These hotels are near the conference facility. Call for prices and to make your own arrangements: Comfort Inn Plymouth: (763) 559 -1222 Crown Plaza Minneapolis: (763) 559 -6600 Ramada Plymouth: (763) 553 -1600 Optional Thursday Night Activity: 5:00pm Thursday, February 5, 2025 MN History Center - St. Paul, MN $10 - Register in advance for this event with your conference registration |
LocationDistrict 287 Conference Center
1820 N. Xenium Ln, Plymouth, MN 55441 |
THURSDAY EVENING EVENT
Tour the Minnesota History Center
History and science are deeply connected, and Minnesota’s story is shaped by both its rich natural resources and its wild weather. On our visit, we’ll explore how Earth science comes to life through two exciting exhibits. In “Then, Now, Wow,” you’ll step into the shoes of early miners and even try blasting for ore! In “Weather Permitting,” we’ll relive some of Minnesota’s most dramatic weather events. These hands-on experiences will show how science and history are all around us and bring science to life.
History and science are deeply connected, and Minnesota’s story is shaped by both its rich natural resources and its wild weather. On our visit, we’ll explore how Earth science comes to life through two exciting exhibits. In “Then, Now, Wow,” you’ll step into the shoes of early miners and even try blasting for ore! In “Weather Permitting,” we’ll relive some of Minnesota’s most dramatic weather events. These hands-on experiences will show how science and history are all around us and bring science to life.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Pete Boulay
Assistant State Climatologist, MN Department of Natural Resources
Climate Change in Minnesota
Pete Boulay is the assistant state climatologist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, working through the Minnesota State Climatology Office in partnership with the University of Minnesota. He holds degrees in meteorology and mass communication from St. Cloud State University and has more than two decades of experience in weather observation and climate data analysis.
In his role, Pete helps monitor, interpret, and communicate climate trends affecting Minnesota, including temperature and precipitation patterns, drought, and extreme weather. He is widely recognized for his ability to translate complex climate science into clear, accessible information for educators, policymakers, and the public.
In his keynote, Pete will present on climate change with a Minnesota focus, highlighting observed trends, impacts, and what they mean for communities and classrooms across the state. He will also welcome questions and discussion, creating space for educators to engage directly with current climate science and practical ways to address climate topics with Minnesota students.
Assistant State Climatologist, MN Department of Natural Resources
Climate Change in Minnesota
Pete Boulay is the assistant state climatologist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, working through the Minnesota State Climatology Office in partnership with the University of Minnesota. He holds degrees in meteorology and mass communication from St. Cloud State University and has more than two decades of experience in weather observation and climate data analysis.
In his role, Pete helps monitor, interpret, and communicate climate trends affecting Minnesota, including temperature and precipitation patterns, drought, and extreme weather. He is widely recognized for his ability to translate complex climate science into clear, accessible information for educators, policymakers, and the public.
In his keynote, Pete will present on climate change with a Minnesota focus, highlighting observed trends, impacts, and what they mean for communities and classrooms across the state. He will also welcome questions and discussion, creating space for educators to engage directly with current climate science and practical ways to address climate topics with Minnesota students.
concurrent session presenter information
Locally Grounded, Globally Relevant: Earth Science for Grades 6–12
Stephanie Erickson, University of Minnesota, Alan Dewey, Pine Island Schools, Anna Karsten, Lake City Schools, Barbara Wendt, Marshall Schools
Modeling Core Samples
Kat Cantner, University of Minnesota
Protecting Drinking Water and Reducing Nitrogen
Caitlin Meyer, Water Resources Supervisor, Olmsted County Soil & Water Conservation District
Observing the Earth’s Orbit: Hands-On Activities for Astronomy Students
Sylke Boyd, Associate Professor, University of Minnesota Morris
Stephanie Erickson, University of Minnesota, Alan Dewey, Pine Island Schools, Anna Karsten, Lake City Schools, Barbara Wendt, Marshall Schools
- Through the lens of Minnesota’s unique groundwater systems, this session showcases a year-long Earth science curriculum designed by a team of educators. The curriculum includes eight NGSS-aligned units for middle or high school, each featuring summary charts, driving question boards, and coherent 3D storylines. Rooted in local phenomena, the units emphasize hands-on investigations and student engagement, making Earth science relevant, inquiry-driven, and connected to students’ own environment.
Modeling Core Samples
Kat Cantner, University of Minnesota
- Core samples give direct insight into Earth’s underground layers. In this workshop, participants will explore hands-on activities using everyday materials—like Zorbitrol (sodium polyacrylate)—to model subsurface layers and teach concepts such as stratigraphy, dating, human impacts, paleoclimate, and earthquakes. Lessons are adaptable across grade levels and aligned with science standards, with ready-to-use classroom resources provided.
Protecting Drinking Water and Reducing Nitrogen
Caitlin Meyer, Water Resources Supervisor, Olmsted County Soil & Water Conservation District
- Groundwater in southeastern Minnesota is essential for drinking water, agriculture, and industry, but it faces contamination from land management practices in sensitive areas. This session examines the issues posed by nitrate contamination and offers practical, research-based solutions to reduce nitrogen inputs. Discover how implementing cover crops, small grains, and alternative cropping systems can enhance soil health, minimize nitrate leaching, and help protect this critical water resource.
Observing the Earth’s Orbit: Hands-On Activities for Astronomy Students
Sylke Boyd, Associate Professor, University of Minnesota Morris
- Bring Earth and Space Science standards to life with engaging, hands-on astronomy activities that help students explore the Sun’s motion and its connection to timekeeping. Participants will build shadow trackers, solar calendars, and simple timers—tools inspired by ancient civilizations to observe and model seasonal patterns. These ready-to-implement lessons support core science practices like developing and using models, identifying patterns, and constructing explanations, making them ideal for middle and high school classrooms.
- Teacher Resources
Contact UsConference event information:
Stephanie Erickson [email protected] Conference registration questions: Jess Strom [email protected] |
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