Are you ready to explore some of the most unique natural areas in southern Ohio? Then get ready for Science Camp at the Edge of Appalachia Preserve! This young naturalist adventure takes place on the 14,000 acre Richard and Lucile Durrell Edge of Appalachia Preserve in Adams County, Ohio. For over 40 years, Cincinnati Museum Center and the Nature Conservancy have been actively preserving the finest natural area in Ohio through stewardship, scientific inquiry and education. Knowing that you protect what you love, Science Camp participants spend three days knee deep in the natural history of southern Ohio including stream life, birds, trees, wildflowers, stars and Ohio's prairies. Teens and preteens come face to face with a myriad of globally threatened and endangered plant and animal species.

Small groups of 12 allow for personal attention, with careful consideration to interests and needs. Teen (ages 13-16 years) and pre-teen (9-12 years) participants receive hands-on experiences in botany, zoology, geology, astronomy and other natural sciences. Classes have an opportunity to assist with the preserve’s Biological Monitoring Program where they participate in an interactive approach to the scientific method, learn to locate and identify animal species, discuss current issues in conservation, and much more while having fun!

When:

Sessions begin with pickup of campers at 6 p.m. on Monday evening and ends at 6 p.m. the following Thursday. All pickups and drop offs will be at the Eastgate Meijer store.Detailed directions mailed with registration.

Where:

Participants are lodged in the modern, air-conditioned Rieveschl Chalet on the southern portion of the Edge of Appalachia Preserve in Adams County, 75 miles east of Cincinnati.

Note:

Each session is limited to 12 participants. These programs, while not overly strenuous, are not recommended for those needing excessive medical attention or who must restrict their physical activity.

Fee:

$250 for members of Cincinnati Museum Center, the Nature Conservancy and Adams County residents; $270 for all others. Fee includes food, lodging, instruction, use of equipment, supplies and transportation while at the Preserve, as well as to and from Cincinnati. (Sorry, we cannot discount the price if travel from Cincinnati is unnecessary).

Food:

Special dietary needs may be accommodated with advance notification.

Health Care:

Staff Members are certified in first-aid and CPR. A hospital is located approximately 12 miles from the Rieveschl Chalet if needed. Transportation is available at all times. Emergency 911 service is also available.

Staff:

Staff consists of four Museum staff members (male and female) plus visiting area scientists, educators and naturalists.

Information:

Please contact Preserve Director Chris Bedel at (937) 544-2880 or enviroed@bright.net.

Registration Policy:

Science Camp registrations will be accepted by mail only (payment must accompany registration) beginning February 5 through 19. After February 19, registrations will be accepted via phone and e-mail on a first-come, first-serve basis until camps are full.