Summer Camp in a box program
Children across Marshall County are getting the summer camp experience from home thanks to the Marshall County Conservation Board.
Children age four to sixth grade can participate in one of four camps depending on age. All camps encourage children to explore their natural world, whether through the study of the water cycle or of animals that come out at night.
Emily Herring, naturalist with the Marshall County Conservation Board, said it was important to continue the camps even when they couldn’t meet in person.
“We want to encourage people to get outside,” she said.
Herring said they try to reach as many people as possible by offering a wide range of programs and activities. The Marshall County Conservation Board has something for everyone, regardless of age or interests.
The summer camp in a box program will help kids “explore their natural world,” Herring said. She added they don’t even have to go outside to do this. Looking at a book about nature inside is still a great learning experience for hot days.
Herring said there would have been 3 camps by now, which are usually pretty full.
She said they have all spent a lot of time putting together the boxes and sitting in front of their computers. According to Herring, they would much prefer to be having fun outside with children through in-person camps.
“We wanted to offer something even in this time of change and uncertainty,” she said.
Despite the limitations, the camps have been a success, with over 50 children participating.
“We’re glad it went over as well as it did,” Herring said.
While the deadline for registration has passed, people can follow along with the camp on the Board’s Facebook page.
They are also considering continuing this program even when they are able to meet in person again, as it offers a special experience for children. They may offer it throughout the year.
It is not only for individual children but their whole families as well.
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Contact Anna Shearer at 641-753-6611 or ashearer@timesrepublican.com