Photo album: Summer Camp Celebration at Merry Lea

Thursday, July 27th — Campers came out and celebrated the end of summer at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College.

In collaboration with the Center for Community Engagement campers were transported down to Merry Lea for a fun filled day with lunch provided–Jimmy John’s. Ooo yea!

Campers arrived to Farmstead and were welcomed by Kaitlyn Sproles, Environmental Education Outreach Coordinator. The team met at the Pavilion and soon sprung into action. They did some garden exploration where they got the chance to try some freshly picked vegetables and fruits, and had the chance to meet the farm animals. Not on the itinerary was the herding of sheep, but sure did bring some spontaneous joy to our campers and staff.

Next up was a A-Z scavenger hunt that had everyone with their eyes wide open searching for the next letter in the alphabet. “X was the hardest to find”, said one of our campers. After some time out in the sun, the group walked back to the Pavilion to enjoy lunch as a group. Subs, subs, subs! From BLTs to veggie sandwiches, there were plenty to choose from.

Before lunch, the canoes had been brought in and together we unloaded them from the trailer. One by one, we carefully took a place on one of the canoes and in pairs canoed in the Wetland. Birds, dragonflies, fish, a turtle, and much more was seen out there living off the ecosystem that the Wetland offers.

After that Marcos Stoltzfus, Assistant Executive Director, did a demonstration that started off at the Wetland and ended in a dark room. The demonstration taught the campers and staff that wetlands are the largest source of methane gas to the atmosphere. In a hot day, like the one we experienced, the wetlands are highly sensitive to temperature and rainfall, and respond quickly producing methane gas. Marcos was able to collect a jar fall of this gas and showcase what it can be used for with the use of a lighter. It is a natural gas and an energy source.

To wrap up our day, Kaitlyn, Marcos and Todd Johnson, our K-12 Educational Outreach coordinator, gave some last minute words and thoughts of our day at Merry Lea. We thank all the staff at Merry Lea, Kevin, and Todd. And cannot forget our joyful campers who came and made this camp possible. To everyone involved we thank you and look forward to more fun memories with you!

Thank you Campers! Till next time!