By Chris Erwin
On March 29 members the Kentucky Outdoor Press Association decided to sponsor a child to attend one of Kentucky’s Conservation Camps. In doing so, they hope to lead by example and recruit more sponsors to broaden the effort to educate our upcoming youth. It’s their chance to experience the wonders of nature and build outdoor skills in a fun and safe environment.
The cost of sending a child to camp, like most things, has gone up. It is in the best interest of us all to help preserve a heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation, especially if we want to see our youth learn to enjoy the benefits associated with breathing fresh air and understanding nature.
In today’s world children way too often are spending their entire time sitting in front of a TV or computer monitor playing games. I’m not here to preach about video games or the two thumbs approach to communication, however, the joy of being outside and exploring the natural world around us should not be lost in digital cyberspace.
Each $230 registration fee includes: lodging, meals, camper insurance, transportation to and from camp, as well as a Junior Sportsman’s License. Restrictions may apply to camp insurance. Camp insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. If medical need arises, camper’s health insurance may be billed first.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and will be accepted through April 15 unless otherwise instructed by your Conservation Educator.
Campers arrive at camp Monday morning and return home on Friday afternoon. Scheduled activities include: Nature, Archery, Boating, Outdoor Survival, Firearm Safety, Fishing/Casting and Swimming.
Successful completion of a camp activity entitles the camper to an achievement patch, certificate or award. Additionally, campers may earn Kentucky’s Hunter Education Certificate. This “orange card” is honored in all states that require a hunter education card. Each evening, campers will also have time to enjoy their favorite playground activities such as basketball, volleyball, badminton, Ping-Pong, and more.
If you have a child who wants to attend summer camp or want to learn more about it visit fw.ky.gov/Education/Pages/Summer-Camps.aspx. Applications are available at the site.
Jessie Nelson, education officer for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, told me that each year they try to send some children to camp that otherwise would never get to go. Each year they take donations to send as many children as the fund can pay for.
This year KOPA elected to donate enough money to send one child to camp, $230.00, while we would like to see hunting clubs, fishing clubs and like-minded individuals follow our lead any amount of money will help.
If you want to keep the outdoors alive, we need to teach our youth how to enjoy nature. By pointing a child toward a high better than drugs, more thrilling than video games, you can help us. Pick up your pen and write a check for whatever you can afford and send it to: Jessie Spears-Nelson, 330 Hall Road South Shore, KY 41175. Make checks payable to “KY Fish & Wildlife.” I plan to visit camp this year and to photograph and report on the childs while they learn all the things the camp has to offer.
Officer Nelson told me she could take donations until May 1. Camp Robert C. Webb I’m told can handle about 200 childs a week and Kentucky has three camps. The other two are Camp Earl Wallace and Camp John Currie. If you would like to speak to someone about sending a child to camp call: 1-800-858-1549. Do it now! You might just change a life!
Till next time, Good Fishing!
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