As we do each fall, we are beginning our search for next summer’s 2011 sponsorships to DEC’s Camp Colby and Pack Forest and ADK’s Teen Trails program. This past season we were able to send five candidates to the DEC camps and two to the ADK Trails program. As usual, our chapter pays for the selected candidates to attend these programs. The subsidy by our chapter is $250 for the ADK program and $325 for the DEC programs. Interested youth who qualify may apply to any of the following:

The Lake Colby Environmental Education Camp, for youth who are 12 to 14 years old, is located on the western shore of Lake Colby, just outside the Village of Saranac Lake. A week at Colby promises fun and adventure. Campers participate in a discovery group while at camp, completing six lessons ranging from group dynamics to field, forest, and pond explorations, to a study of human impact. Group members learn science, solve challenges, play games, keep a journal, catch salamanders, net butterflies and discover the interconnectedness of life on earth. College-educated counselor staff guides all activities, encouraging participation and respect among group members while interpreting the natural world for campers. Additionally, campers choose from a variety of optional activities throughout the week that introduce them to outdoor pursuits and pastimes. Experiences include fishing, canoeing, archery, exploring a bog and overnight camping trips.

Pack Forest, located in the southern Adirondacks, offers programs in environmental studies. The camp is located in Warren County, about five miles north of Warrensburg, on 2,500 acres of woodlands. The property includes an 85-acre lake and countless miles of trails leading to mountain vistas, marshes and the banks of the Hudson River. Pack Forest offers youth 12 to 14 and 15 to 17 years old a chance to explore forestry, aquatic biology, wildlife management, field ecology and other environmental issues. Workshop attendees learn about professional forestry techniques, such as the use of Biltmore sticks and increment borers. The program emphasizes group dynamics and teamwork as essential to the environmental decision-making process. Staff encourages interaction, communication and cooperation as campers seek solutions to group challenge activities. Students also discover their individual strengths and abilities. As well as advanced outdoor workshops, campers participate in exhilarating out-of-camp canoeing or backpacking trips in the beautiful Adirondacks. Optional activities during the workshop include fly fishing, hiking, swimming, shooting sports and orienteering.

(The above descriptions were taken from the DEC website where further information may be obtained)

The Teen Trails program, run by ADK, provides opportunities for high school students (aged 14 to 17) who are excited by the idea of spending up to five days camping and doing quality trail work. ADK will provide food, group camping gear, tools and experienced leadership. The focus of this program is on educating participants on the ways and means of trail maintenance. Participants learn how to properly install water devices such as water bars, how to harvest a tree using tools such as a crosscut saw and axe, and how to use boulders with a steel bar. Teamwork and shared responsibility are key elements of this program. Specific sites for the Summer 2011 program will be posted on our site as soon as available.

Applications must be received by January 7. 2011. If you have any questions, contact Linda by phone or email.

- Linda Ranado, Education Chair

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