PRINCESS ANNE — Aspiring young scientists can explore hands-on activities and get a look inside UMES’ new 4-H STEM Mobile Lab on Saturday, Oct. 18 during the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s 4-H STEM Expo,

The family-friendly event is free and geared toward youth ages 5-18. Interactive science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) demonstrations, and exhibits will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Engineering and Aviation Sciences Complex on the eastern edge of the campus.

Hosted by UMES Extension, the 4-H STEM Expo is part of the 11th Maryland STEM Festival held each fall to inspire youth to pursue science-related careers and help fuel the state’s efforts to grow STEM businesses.

“UMES Extension works with schools, after-school programs, parks and camps throughout the year to make science come to life for area youth,” said Brad Hartle, UMES Extension 4-H STEM educator and coordinator for the event.

“The expo allows us to share educational opportunities and programs that our campus and community partners have to offer. This year is special as we are debuting our new 4-H STEM Mobile Lab that will be heading to area youth with a flexible curriculum at their schools and communities.”

Also new to the STEM Expo this year, the National Aquarium Stranding Response Center will exhibit tools used for seal and sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation work, Hartle said. The Pocomoke State Park returns to the event with animal ambassadors for youth to interact with in addition to exhibits from other area organizations.

Along with other UMES groups, the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions will show how medications dissolve and are absorbed through a gummy bear pharmacokinetics experiment and offer a potions interactive game. After being shown pictures and descriptions, students guess if a substance is safe and could be used in medicine or is dangerous.

No reservations are required to attend, just drop in. Call 410-651-6729 or email bhartle@umes.edu for more information.

— Gail Stephens is the agricultural communications and media associate for the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences and UMES Extension.