An Educated Public is Nature's Best Defense!

A Brief History:

The Massachusetts Outdoor Expo, fondly referred to as The Big M.O.E., started out with a group of sportsmen and women who wanted to create an opportunity for kids of all ages to learn more about outdoor skills, wildlife and conservation. They approached the Hamilton Rod and Gun Club in Sturbridge to host the Mass. Outdoor Expo, due to its central location, facilities and the connections the group had to the club. An annual event was born!

A couple years later, members of the Mass. Outdoor Expo group approached FAWNS, (Facts About Wildlife & Nature Society) a non-profit group founded in 1998 to promote the connection of people to the outdoors. FAWNS was interested in promoting educational experiences focusing on the outdoors. A "natural" connection between the Expo group and FAWNS was obvious.  A partnership was formed and FAWNS became the organizing entity supporting the Big MOE. 

Now in it's 14th year (2010) the Massachusetts Outdoor Expo continues to operate as a free family event. Its key function is to offer a first, safe, step into the outdoors guided by the Certified Instructors who oversee the hands-on activity stations.

The BIG MOE then goes on to provide our participants with the tools to learn about and connect with the many education programs, sporting clubs, and other community pathways to learning more about outdoor activities.   

FAWNS, PO Box 674 Holden, MA 01520

Gary Zima, Ludlow, MA 413-589-8900 or 508-389-6300

Ralph Gajewski, Sturbridge, MA 508-347-7751

Peter Mirick, West Boylston, MA 508-835-2386