May 28, 2010

Spots still available for Eco U summer camp

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The countdown is on for the unique summer camp experience, Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Eco U, and although there are still spots open, they’re filling up fast.

The hands-on, experiential learning experience of Eco U is open to youths entering grades two through seven this fall. There are four different weeklong sessions, each with its own theme and unique experiences. Under the guidance of trained professional staff, camp participants will enjoy all kinds of activities to heighten their awareness of the environment and world around them.

Kids can attend any number of sessions. The cost is $175 per week except for the fourth camp session, which is a four-day session and costs $140. Anyone participating in all four camp sessions will save $40 on registration.

The summer 2010 schedule for Eco U includes:

• Animal Adventures, June 14-18: Wherever they live, animals are amazing creatures, camp participants will discover.

• Survival 101, June 21-25: Find out how Native Americans used the land to meet their basic needs.

• Eco Fun! June 28-July 2: Learn more about the planet we live on and how you can help protect Earth and make it a healthier place.

• Wonderful Water, July 6-9: Discover the entire world that exists in the water.

The camp is from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at the Touch of Nature Environmental Center, located on a 3,100-acre site along Little Grassy Lake. It’s about 8 miles south of Carbondale on Giant City Road. Camp participants can even get a free bus ride to and camp. The bus will leave the SIU Arena parking lot at 8 a.m. each day and return to the lot by 4:30 p.m.

“Our popular Eco U camp is bigger and better than ever in 2010 with new activities and nature settings. Registration is on a first come, first served basis. To guarantee the week of your choice, call right away,” said Kate Hellgren, environmental education program coordinator and director of Eco U camp.

To register, call 618/453-1121. To find out more about the fourth annual Eco U, contact Hellgren at 618/453-1122, ext. 250.