Conservationist of the Month

Camp Teepee

The Monroe Conservation Commission is pleased to name Camp Tepee Conservationist of the Month for July. Camp Teepee, located at the YMCA in Monroe has been getting kids outside for 60 years. This summer the camp will introduce the joys of nature to about 900 children ranging in age from 5 to 15 years. Camp counselors lead the kids in science, project challenge, arts & crafts, boating, archery, fishing, swimming, Native American lore, film and games all while instilling the Y's four values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Meaghan Ballard, camp and child care director at the Y, says, "We instill these values at camp as they relate to nature. Kids seem to have a natural fascination with an ant crossing the sidewalk. If we can get these kids to care about and respect nature, we hope they make the connection to all living things including people." A game of recycling relay (see photo) teaches camp goers about the importance of recycling and how decisions made in their homes have an impact on the nature outside their homes. With kids spending more and more time indoors in a sterile environment, Camp Teepee offers today's youth an opportunity to be outside, learn, have fun, meet new friends and go home exhausted and dirty at the end of the day with a big smile on their face. Camp Teepee runs for 8 weeks from 9am - 3:30pm. For availability and more information call 203-261-2566.

Our Past Conservationists of the Month

• Felicia Ortner
• Harper Household
• Kate Chase and Arlene Spoonfeather
• William Ryan
• Nancy Steinborn
• Susan Muro
• Bill Stankey
• Jill Peterson
• Mario and Kathy Hering
• Brenda Weir
• Sherrif Orr
• Mike Wallace
• Trler Brin