NATURAL HISTORY DAY CAMP in Chatham

Transcription

1 Mass Audubon s NATURAL HISTORY DAY CAMP in Chatham Chatham Elementary School 147 Depot Road Chatham, MA DISCOVER. EXPLORE. BE OUTSIDE! SUMMER 2019

2 My son is very energetic and all the counselors were cheerful, friendly and created many fun games as outlets. He also definitely appreciates taking care of natures and this program reinforced that! ABOUT CAMP Mass Audubon s Natural History Day Camp in Chatham inspires a child s curiosity and excitement about nature. Campers ages 4 to 13 have fun and make friends as they explore the nature of Cape Cod. Our goals are to instill a sense of place, and an awareness and appreciation for nature. Above all, we create happy and memorable outdoor experiences for our campers. OUR CAMP STAFF Our staff members are chosen for their enthusiasm, experience, nature knowledge, and ability to work with children in the outdoors. They are college graduates or undergraduates currently enrolled in environmental and/or educational fields of study. All are certified in first-aid and CPR and participate in a pre-camp training in saftey, child development and natural history. LOCATION Camp headquarters is located at Chatham Elementary School. Each camper group will have a classroom to store belongings and use as a place for activities when there s inclement weather. OUR CAMP DIRECTORS Camp Director Emily Wolfe has been with Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for 11 years. Emily is also Wellfleet Bay s Education Coordinator. When camp isnt in session, she is busy teaching natural history curriculum in Cape Cod schools and helping out with cold-stunned sea turtle rescue effots. Our on-site Chatham Camp Director, Morgan Peck, has been with Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for four years. Throughout the year, Morgan teaches and coordinates educational programming with visiting schools to Wellfleet Bay. Her specialty is marine science. 1

3 UNDER YOUR FEET July 8 12 Get low, go slow, and search for what lies at your feet! Look in nearby bushes and under piles of fallen leaves to uncover creepy crawlers. Learn to observe the ground from an animal s perspective, and find out just how important soil is. You won t have to go far to discover what s been hiding right under your nose, like worms, a robin s nest, or even a garter snake! PEEPS Entering Pre-K or K* Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 5 Half Day: 9:00 am 12:30 pm $240 members; $305 nonmembers, per week Full Day: 9:00 am 2:30 pm $275 members; $340 nonmembers, per week The Peeps encourages curiosity and introduces campers to nature exploration and Cape Cod wildlife. Half-day sessions include time for a mid-morning snack, and full-day sessions include time for a mid-morning snack and lunch. Peeps stay on campus and visit wild places within walking distance of Chatham Elementary. *Please note: Peeps must be age four by June 1. AMAZING ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS *Peeps only July Surviving in the wild is no easy task, and each animal has it s own unique adaptations to make sure it doesn t end up someone s lunch! Explore different habitats to see how different animals protect themselves. What makes deer ears so special? Why do a raccoon s hands make it such a good omnivore? Observe, and uncover the answers to these questions and more! SHARK ENTHUSIASTS *Turtles only July Immerse yourself in shark biology and marine science during field trips to serveral local destinations! Learn about the special adaptations and anatomy of a shark by completing a shark dissection, and observe the white shark s primary food source seals! Offered in partnership with the Atlantic White Shark Conservency BETWEEN THE TREES July Travel through some of Cape Cod s wooded habitats and learn about the animals that make their homes in fields and trees. What do grey squirrels do in oak trees? Why do chickadees hide inside tree trunks? Become familiar with all sorts of furry and feathered forest creatures! NATURE ART July 29 August 2 Gather inspiration from the natural world, and spend lots of time outside building art! From fairy houses, to leaf murals, to shell collages, bring a different habitat or animal to life and have a natural piece of homemade art to take home! TURTLES Entering Grades 1 2 Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 5 Full Day: 9:00 am 2:30 pm $300 members; $365 nonmembers, per week The Turtles program inspires nature discovery through outdoor exploration, crafts, and creative games that focus on animals and their habitats. Full-day sessions include time for a mid-morning snack and lunch. Turtles travel off site by van on two field trips each week. 2 RAD REPTILES August 5 9 What makes reptiles and amphibians unique from their furry counterparts? Investigate a snake s shed skin and various turtle shells, and find our where reptiles lay there eggs. Travel to nearby ponds or vernal pools to look for salamanders and catch tadpoles, frogs and turtles. Get wet and muddy searching for our slimy, scaly friends! WRACK-LINE INVESTIGATORS August Traverse our nearby coast-lines to discover the mysteries that every wrack-line holds. A collection of things the ocean has uncovered, the wrack is anything that has washed up above the high-tide line; it is filled with all sorts of marine treasures Look closely for small living invertebrates like sand-hoppers, crabs, and mollusks!

4 SEALS Entering Grades 3 5 Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 7 Full Day: 9:00 am 2:30 pm $385 members; $450 nonmembers, per week The Seals program brings science and nature together with field activities, in-depth exploration, and scientific methods. Full-day sessions include time for a mid-morning snack and lunch. Seals go off site on field trips by van to learn more about their subject being studied. BENTHIC BIOLOGISTS! July 8 12 Field Trip: Marine Boat Cruise The best way to learn about any eco-system is from the bottom up! Explore Cape Cod natural habitats like the salt marsh, the forest floor, open fields, and fresh water ponds by examining the living (and dead!) hidden in the benthic layers of these areas. Grab a magnifying glass, and search for invertebrates under dead logs and detritus, to find out how things that were once alive fuel the grand cycle of life! FASCINATING FIELDS & FORESTS July Field Trip: Nickerson State Park It s not all about the water here on Cape Cod the drier habitats, like our fields and forests, are important parts of a larger, more diverse ecosystem. Box turtles, turkeys, coyotes, and more! Take your hiking pack, and explore the beautiful pitch pine forests, maritime heathlands, and grasslands to learn all about our fun terrestrial critters! POLLINATOR POWER! July Field Trip: Cape Cod Natural History Museum From birds, to butterflies, to bees, investigate the adaptations that make pollinators unique from other animals. Observe our own Painted Lady butterflies as the metamorphose from caterpillar to winged adult, build hummingbird feeders for the garden, and learn what makes this group of animals so important to our world. TRAVELS BETWEEN THE TIDES July 29 August 2 Field Trip: Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge How do some creaures live half their lives on dry land, and the other half fully submerged? Delve into the tidal flats to 3 discover how crabs, fish, shellfish and other animals handle this constant shift in habitat. Use dip nets and collection cases to observe creatures of the tidal flats up close. Visit nearby beaches to examine their special adaptations! FRESHWATER FRENZY! August 5 9 Field Trip: Marine Boat Trip What leaps through ponds, crawls from vernal pools or migrates to streams? Visit these habitats on foot and by boat to gain a new perspective on the organisims that live there. Follow freshwater systems to catch frogs, painted turtles, set fish traps, and look for aquatic insects. Will our explorations eventually lead us to the ocean? Find out! MARINE MANIA August Field Trip: Seal Cruise See all the wonders the open oceans have to offer! Jellyfish, sea turtles, pelagic birds, and countless others make their home in the vast blue waters. Discover the differences between bayside and ocean side beachers as you comb the shores and see seal populations on a guided boat tour! CITIZEN SCIENCE AT CAMP! SEALS BEACH CONSERVATION CLEAN-UP As developing nature stewards, Seals partake in a beach debris clean-up! Safely collect and categorize the most common unnatural materials found in our oceans and use these materials to create various art projects. SHARKS SNORKELING SHELLFISH SURVEYS Sharks survey an abundance of underwater organisms on weekly snorkeling trips. Over the course of the summer, observe trends of shellfish found throughout the mid-cape. SALT MARSH SCIENCE Measure and record the length of salt-marsh hay and cordgrass that grow within local salt marshes. Learn about the complex chemistry that sustains a salt marsh, and what makes this habitat an important part of our coastal ecosystem!

5 SHARKS Entering Grades 6 8 Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 8 Full Day: 9:00 am 2:30 pm $415 members; $475 nonmembers, per week The Sharks program nurtures environmental stewardship and education through fun and exciting hands-on activities, including offsite field trips to explore Cape Cod s varied habitats. Every week includes a snorkeling trip. Full-day sessions include time for a mid-morning snack and lunch. Please note: participants must be able to demonstrate strong swimming skills in order to snorkel. MISSION: DECOMPOSITION July 8 12 Field Trips: White Cedar Swamp (Marconi) & Marine Boat Cruise Why does the salt marsh smell so weird? What s in the muck at the bottom of the pond? Decomposition, or simply broken down dead stuff, is an extremely important part of any healthy habitat. Examine the lesser-known parts of the marsh, pond, and forest to get the science behind why we need the decomposers in our eco-system! From mushrooms, to insects, to snails and salamanders, follow small creatures to lead you through the tale of something once living! THE GAME OF CLUE: NATURE EDITION July Field Trips: Paddle Boarding & Tern Island Nature mysteries are all around us. Who dug up those turtle eggs? Why are all these feathers on the ground? How did that tree fall down? Step outside to locate something puzzling, collect nearby clues for a potential hypothesis, and submit your case to the rest of your group for review! Step into the mind of a true nature detective, to make sesnse of evidence that s right under your nose. SHARK ENTHUSIASTS* July Field Trips: Boat Trip to Active Shark Receiver Immerse yourself in shark biology and marine science through handson labs and field trips to several local destinations. Engineer hydraulic arms to complete sampling challenges, learn about the various tags used in tracking sharks, study the anatomy of a shark by completing a shark dissection, take a boat trip out to an active shark receiver, and observe the white shark s primary food source seals! Offered in partnership with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy. THE POWER OF THE COASTLINE July 29 August 2 Field Trips: Seal Cruise & Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge The shape of Cape Cod and it s coastline are constantly changing. Learn about many of the coastal processes that affect our beaches and contribute to its ever-changing nature and resilience. Hear from people whose careers are dedicated to studying coastal habitats and wildlife, and learn what you can do to protect the beautiful marshes, beaches, and animals who live there for the future! THROUGH THE STREAMS August 5 9 Field Trips: Kayaking & Marine Boat Cruise Explore the freshwater habitats of various aquatic life, from stream to sea! Set eel traps and reveal the contents, discuss the lifecycle of herring, and seee unique changes that these bodies of water undergo as they empty into an estuary. Collect freshwater specimens to bring back to our tanks at camp to observe their behaviors and adaptations. GEOCACHING, A REAL LIFE TREASURE HUNT! August Field Trips: Eddy Sisters Trail & Pah Wah Pond Conservation Area Have you ever dreamed of finding a map that would lead you on your very own treasure hunt? Geocaching consists of using a GPS unit to follow a map of clues that leads you to a trove of hidden items (the "cache") somewhere in nature! These maps are created for those who want to get out and explore beautiful natural spaces. Search for geocaches, and learn orienteering and wilderness survival skills along the way! FIELD TRIP HIGHLIGHTS STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING Learn to stand-up paddle board with SUPfari Adventures, and see marine wildlife from a whole new angle atop your board! NAUSET MARSH KAYAK Explore Nauset Marsh aboard your very own kayak, and search for shorebirds and seals along the way! Paddle the marsh s inlets to observe fish, crabs, and other wildlife. TERN ISLAND TRIP Hop aboard a boat to Tern Island to look for shorebirds, horseshoe crabs, shellfish, and more. A Mass Audubon Coastal Waterbird Specialist or Naturalist will lead the exploration to observe nesting shorebird populations. LEADERS-IN-TRAINING Ages $150 members/$215 nonmembers Chatham s Leaders-in-Training (LIT) Program is for teens who are looking to gain experience working with children in a camp setting. Participate in trainings in natural history topics and teaching skills, assist camp groups, and learn to teach nature-themed lessons, games, and activities. An application is required and space is limited. For more information and to request an application, contact Camp Director Emily Wolfe at ewolfe@ massaudubon.org. 4

6 Camp Registration Information To Register for Camp Visit massaudubon.org/ chathamcamp Call Mail the attached registration form and payment to: Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, P.O. Box 236, South Wellfleet, MA Registration Policy Registration begins January 4. Mailed registrations will be stamped with the date of receipt and processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration Confirmation A confirmation letter/ containing important documents and information will be sent once your camper s registration has been processed. Deposit Registration must include payment for 50 percent of the total camp fees, and includes a nonrefundable deposit of $50 per camper, per session. This deposit is applied to your camp tuition and cannot be transferred to another camper, family, or camp location. If registering after May 15, payment in full is required (unless a payment plan has been established with the Camp Director). Refund Policy A full refund, minus the nonrefundable deposit, is provided to camp families who cancel in writing on or before May 15. After May 15, no refund is available. Deposits are not transferable, and refunds are not given for participant dismissal, failure to attend, absence, or sick days. If we must cancel a session, you will receive a full refund. Membership & Discounts Mass Audubon members at the Family level or above receive a discounted rate. To qualify, your membership must be current through your camper s last session, and you must be the parent, grandparent, or legal guardian of the camper being enrolled. Membership can be purchased or renewed at the time of registration. If you are unsure of your member status, please call Campers who reside on Cape Cod year-round receive a $50 discount on half-day programs, and a $70 discount on full-day programs. Proof of the camper s enrollment in a Cape Cod school district in the form of a report card, progress report, or letter from the school must accompany registration in order for the camper to receive the discount. Financial Aid Financial assistance is available based on demonstrated economic need and available funds, and is generally limited to one session per child; however, all applications are considered. Applications are due by May 1. Please call the Camp Director to request an application or download one at massaudubon.org/campforms. Payment Plans Payment plan options are available. Please contact the Camp Director for more information. Important Deadlines All camp forms, waivers, and the balance of your camp tuition are due by May 15. If registering after May 15, payment in full is required and a specific camp form deadline will be set for you. A camper cannot attend camp and his/her spot is not guaranteed until all forms, waivers, and payments are completed (or a payment plan has been established). A fee of $75 per camper will be charged for incomplete or late forms and waivers. Camper Requirements Campers are expected to meaningfully participate in age-appropriate activities, including outdoor exploration and nature study. To ensure a successful camp experience, please discuss any pertinent information regarding your child s special needs with the Camp Director. We can accommodate on a case-bycase basis in order to establish the best strategy for a great summer camp experience. All campers must follow stated behavior expectations and safety rules. The Camp Director reserves the right to dismiss a camper when, in his/her judgement, the camper s behavior interferes with 5 the rights of others or the smooth functioning of the group or activity, or violates the camp s behavior policy. In such cases no refunds will be provided. If you have any questions regarding your child s ability to participate in our camp program, please contact the Camp Director. Camp License Our camp complies with the regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (105 CMR 430) and is licensed by the Chatham Board of Health. ACA Accreditation We are proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. Developed exclusively for the camp industry, this nationally recognized program focuses on program quality, and health and safety, management, and camp operations. Camp Policy Requests You may request copies of our background check, healthcare, discipline, bullying, and grievance policies at any time. Camp was tremendous, keep doing what you re doing! Camp Contact Info Emily Wolfe, Camp Director Camp Location (June August) Natural History Day Camp in Chatham Chatham Elementary School 147 Depot Road Chatham, MA Mailing Address (Year-Round) P.O. Box State Highway Route 6 South Wellfleet, MA, ewolfe@massaudubon.org massaudubon.org/wellfleetbaycamp

7 Through May 15, registrations will be accepted by mail or online. After May 15, registrations will be accepted by mail or phone. For identity safety assurances, fax and submissions are not permitted. Send registration form with payment to Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, P.O. Box 236, South Wellfleet, MA Phone: Please use photocopy for additional children or camp weeks. Office use only DR FS FR Camper Last Name: First Name: Gender: Street Address: City: State: Zip: Birth Date: / / Age as of June 1: Grade as of Sept 2019: Returning Camper? YES / NO [ ] Peeps (half day) [ ] Turtles (full day) [ ] Seals (full day) [ ] Sharks (full day) [ ] LIT Program [ ] Peeps (full day) Dates Session Name(s) Person Completing This Form Last Name: First Name: Relationship to Camper: Phone (Primary): Phone (Secondary): Member #: Add to Carpool List? YES / NO Address (if different): City: State: Zip: Parent/Guardian (if different than above) Last Name: First Name: Relationship to Camper: Phone (Primary): Phone (Secondary): Member #: Add to Carpool List? YES / NO Address (if different): City: State: Zip: Payment Method Check Included (payable to Mass Audubon, include child s name and session dates in subject line) OR Credit Card DISC / MC / VISA #: Exp. Date: Verification Code: Signature: Payment Information Total Camp Session(s): $ *Mass Audubon Family Membership if Joining/Renewing ($65): $ Tax-Deductible Campership Fund Donation: $ TOTAL DUE: $ Amount Paid Today (Full or 50%): $ Balance Due by May 15: $ I agree to allow the Massachusetts Audubon Society to charge my credit card in the amount(s) specified above and understand that refunds will only be provided in accordance with the refund policy outlined in this brochure. I have read and agree to the refund policy outlined in this brochure. *To qualify for a camp tuition discount, you must be a current Mass Audubon member at the Family level or above and be the parent, grandparent, or legal guardian of the camper being enrolled. If you are unsure of your membership status, please call

8 DISCOVER. EXPLORE. BE OUTSIDE! Mass Audubon protects 38,000 acres of land P.O. Box 236, South Wellfleet, MA Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary welcomes more than 1,100 campers and 32,000 visitors annually. We protect and conduct research on a number of Cape Cod s endangered, threatened, and at-risk species. Our robust science program enables us to bring research into all of our education programs, including day camp. To support Wellfleet Bay s education and conservation work, call , extension 6109 or go to massaudubon.org/wellfleetbay. throughout Massachusetts, saving birds and other wildlife, and making nature accessible to all. As Massachusetts largest nature conservation nonprofit, we welcome more than a half million visitors a year to our wildlife sanctuaries and 20 nature centers. From inspiring hilltop views to breathtaking coastal landscapes, serene woods, and working farms, we believe in protecting our state s natural treasures for wildlife and for all people a vision shared in 1896 by our founders, two extraordinary Boston women. Today, Mass Audubon is a nationally recognized environmental education leader, offering thousands of camp, school, and adult programs that get over 225,000 kids and adults outdoors every year. With more than 125,000 members and supporters, we advocate on Beacon Hill and beyond, and conduct conservation research to preserve the natural heritage of our beautiful state for today s and future generations. We welcome you to explore a nearby sanctuary, find inspiration, and get involved. Learn how at massaudubon.org. Connect With Us