Teen Conservation Summit
April 18 - 18, 2026
Engage in exciting workshops, hear from expert speakers, and collaborate on innovative projects.
Free for approved registrants
Quick Links
On behalf of the Detroit Zoo Education team, we are thrilled to invite you to the Detroit Zoo Teen Conservation Summit!
Get ready to join a dynamic group of young environmental enthusiasts determined to make a difference. Your passion and dedication to protecting our planet are truly inspiring, and we are excited to have you here.
Throughout this summit, you will:
- Engage in exciting workshops
- Hear from expert speakers
- Collaborate on innovative projects
Whether it’s learning about sustainable practices, wildlife conservation, or environmental advocacy, we aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools to drive positive change in your community.
As you explore the Zoo and participate in summit activities, remember that every small action counts toward a larger impact. We encourage you to ask questions, share your ideas, and connect with like-minded peers. Together, we can create a greener, healthier future for all.
The Detroit Zoo Teen Conservation Summit is a free, student-driven program where teens will have the opportunity to hear from conservation experts and peers from across Michigan about important sustainability and conservation-based work in their communities.
Who Can Attend
This program is open to all teens ages 14–17. Participants may register individually or as part of a group.
Please note that adults are expected to allow their teens to participate independently unless they are school or organizational faculty serving as a designated group leader. If a teen requires one-on-one adult support to participate successfully, that adult is welcome to attend.
For additional information or questions, please contact [email protected].
Register
Conference Schedule
Saturday, Apr. 18
9:45 a.m.- 10:00 a.m. Check-In
10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m.- Key Note Speaker
11:00 a.m.- 11:45 a.m.- Break Out Sessions
12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.- Lunch and Poster Presentations
1:00 p.m.-1:45 p.m.- Break Out Sessions
2:00 p.m.-2:45 p.m.- Break Out Sessions
3:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m.- Award Presentations
3:30-p.m.-4:00 p.m. – Networking and Wrap-Up
Interested in Presenting?
Call for Presenters
Are you passionate about conservation? Have you worked on a project, conducted research, or been involved in environmental action that you’d love to share with others? If so, we want you to be a presenter at the Teen Conservation Summit!
We are looking for teen leaders (ages 14–17) who are excited to inspire their peers by:
- Delivering a 45-minute breakout presentation with a slide deck
- Creating a poster presentation to be displayed during the Summit lunch session
You’re welcome to present on any conservation topic you care about. Examples include:
- A community science project or habitat restoration effort
- Research you conducted at school or through a youth program
- A climate action or environmental justice initiative
- Wildlife conservation topics—pollinators, amphibians, ocean health, urban ecology, and more
- A sustainability or Zero Waste campaign you helped lead
We will provide all technology needed for breakout sessions. Please note that poster presenters are responsible for bringing their own printed poster and any materials needed for display. All presentation content must be submitted in advance and approved by the Detroit Zoo.
If you’re ready to inspire fellow teens and showcase your conservation leadership, contact [email protected].
Join us and help make this year’s Teen Conservation Summit unforgettable!
For more information and questions please email [email protected]!
Apply to Sponsor the Teen Conservation Summit
Teen Conservation Summit provides a unique way to connect your brand with the Detroit Zoological Society in a fun and memorable way!
There are several levels to choose from, all of which provide valuable exposure and benefits.
Please contact Matt Opperman to discuss the various packages at (248) 336-5723 or [email protected].