Registration open for youth summer conservation camps

The Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association (WI Land+Water) announced that the registration period is open for the annual summer conservation camps.

Open to middle and high school students, these camps provide positive educational outdoor experiences, foster an appreciation for nature, and introduce a variety of careers in natural resources and conservation.

The Middle School Conservation Camp is held at Upham Woods in the Wisconsin Dells. The outdoor learning center sits on the Wisconsin River, offering an excellent ‘river classroom’ to study Wisconsin’s natural resources. With 318 total acres of forested land, including a 210-acre island called Blackhawk Island, campers will explore the island on a guided hike and enjoy time swimming or paddling.

The High School Conservation Camp is located at the North Lakeland Discovery Center, a nature-based education and community center in Manitowish Waters. The diverse, undeveloped land surrounding the camp provides an unparalleled teaching environment including a lake, river, mixed forest and bog. Students will participate in a local conservation project and in outdoor activities like fishing and canoeing.

“Our summer conservation camps offer a unique opportunity for young people to explore the great outdoors, learn about the importance of environmental stewardship, and discover potential career paths in natural resources,” said Kim Warkentin, youth education director for WI Land+Water.

At both camps, natural resources professionals from various agencies will present programs on topics such as wildlife, habitat, water quality, fisheries, forestry, orienteering, and canoeing. These professionals, as well as adult volunteers, will serve as overnight staff and group leaders for the duration of the camps.

To ensure these transformative experiences are accessible to all, WI Land+Water has worked to

establish scholarship opportunities. The Brad Matson Memorial Conservation Camp Scholarship, named in honor of a passionate supporter of youth conservation programs, can provide funding for students who may not otherwise have the chance to attend a summer camp. Additionally, many county land and water conservation departments offer their own scholarships for local students.

“Camp scholarships are a great way to provide opportunities to families by removing cost as a barrier,” said Amy Piaget, Dane County Conservationist and WI Land+Water Board treasurer. “Learning about our natural world and experiencing the outdoors should be an opportunity for all youth.”

Campers will have the chance to make new friends, participate in hands-on activities, practice social and leadership skills, and simply enjoy the beauty of nature. The camps are open to students entering grades 6-12, with camps scheduled for the following dates:

• Middle School Camp: June 9-12, Upham Woods, for students entering grades 6-8

• High School Camp: June 17-20, North Lakeland Discovery Center, students entering grades 9-12

Registration closes for both camps on May 17, 2024. To register or for more information, including details on scholarship opportunities and dates to apply, please visit wisconsinlandwater.org/camps.