The Montana Outdoor Science School (MOSS)

The Montana Outdoor Science School (MOSS), a non-profit outdoor education organization, understands the value of nature to the well being of children and families.  The US Fish and Wildlife Service’s Bozeman Fish Technology Center, a fish conservation research program located in southwestern Montana, is the ideal setting for experiencing nature.  The organizations together are like peanut butter and jelly, providing nutritious and yummy experiences for all involved, especially kids and families in the Gallatin Valley.  

MOSS was founded in 1994 by three inspired women with an extraordinary vision.  MOSS has been promoting an awareness, understanding and appreciation of the natural world for the last fifteen years.  Today, MOSS delivers programs year-round, bringing environmental and natural science concepts to life through hands-on educational activities focused on our local natural surroundings. 

The Bozeman Fish Technology Center is located on more than 170 acres of public land, including Bridger Creek, a fishing pond, a hiking trail, wetlands, and fish culture and laboratory facilities.  The Center was established in 1892 as a National Fish Hatchery.  In 1966, the program shifted away from hatchery work to focus on fish conservation research which continues today.  The Center hosts more than 5,000 visitors a year to walk nature trails, tour the facility, bird watch or picnic in the beautiful setting.  Deer, black bear, moose, beaver, and even cougar have been spotted on the property.  Birds, fish and wildflowers abound.  

More than ten years ago, MOSS asked the Bozeman Fish Technology Center to host their Community Watershed Festival.  With the goal of promoting an awareness of and responsible stewardship towards the diverse natural resources found within our watersheds, this free community event brings together hundreds of people of all ages to more than 20 local exhibitors who share their knowledge and expertise through educational activities and displays.  In 2008, more than 1500 people attended the Watershed Festival at the Center to enjoy everything from live animals to fly tying and casting; fish dissections to live music; hands-on science to face painting; and more. 

The success of the Watershed Festival and the opportunity for use of this incredible public resource, led MOSS and the Bozeman Fish Technology Center to take their relationship to another level.  In 2006, the Bozeman Fish Technology Center and MOSS developed an agreement which results in MOSS being located at the Center in exchange for assistance with Center tours, outreach and education. Now MOSS bases all of its summer day camps as well as several year-round programs that serve more than 1000 children and adults annually on this amazing publicly owned land. In 2008, MOSS developed a volunteer program, allowing members of the community to offer their time as tour guides and naturalists, educating visitors about the important work of both organizations.  In addition to the Watershed Festival, MOSS and the Center also host the annual Fishing Derby, National Trails Day activities and other community events.

This years Watershed Festival will take place on May 16, 2009, rain or shine.   If you’re in the area, please come by the Watershed Festival.  It’s is a great way for the entire family to get outside and learn about the importance of understanding and protecting our most essential natural resources. 

Rain or Shine – The Watershed Festival at Bozeman Fish Technology Center on May 16, 2009

On Saturday, May 16, 2009, the Bozeman Fish Technology Center in Bozeman, Montana, will host the Community Watershed Festival with the Montana Outdoor Science School (MOSS).  This free community event brings together more than 20 local exhibitors who share their enthusiasm, knowledge, and expertise using educational activities and displays.  It is a great way for the entire family to get outside, have fun, and learn about the importance of understanding and protecting our most essential natural resources.  You can enjoy everything from live animals, to fly tying and casting, to fish dissections, to live music, to hands-on science, to face painting, and more. 

If you’re in the Bozeman area, please come by the Watershed Festival this May. 

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