Ecology Week 2011 – Recap

The first week of camping season 2011 began with a brand new program: Ecology. Volunteers Tara and Gary Paxton from the Annunciation Church in Brick, NJ, educated campers and staff in local ecology and environment dynamics. The algie growth in lake Oneida during the same time served as a perfect example to raise awareness of the relationship between natural  water ecosystem and the damaging effect of human activities. Campers collected  samples and tested the quality of the water, while learning about pH, bacteria growth, and oxygen levels.  Gary and Tara introduced the watershed of New York State and explained how local human activities impact large regions. They brainstormed ideas for improving the lake’s ecosystem.

On another beautiful day, everyone was able to explore lake Oneida’s flora and founa. Campers were able to examine their underwater treasures, match them to a chart, and identify various species.

As an example of the interconnectedness between ecosystems, everyone went on a nature walk through camp’s woodland paths. Once again, children and counselors identified leaves, trees, seeds and other species.

The week’s activities culminated with the children making t-shirts stamped with natural materials, such as fish prints, leaves and branches. A wonderful keepsake to take home and remind them of fun times shared in a natural setting.

Thank you, Tara, Gary, Larissa and Reanna Paxton for all the planning, effort, love and assistance during ecology week. It was a pleasure having you at St. Andrew’s camp and we are looking forward to seeing you next year!

To find our more about the Paxton family, please, read our previous post: Meet Our Team 2011 – Tara and Gary Paxton!http://saintandrewscamp.wordpress.com/2011/06/02/meet-our-team-2011-tara-and-gary-paxton/

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