2023 CREW Camp

July 10-13

CREW Camp participants are provided with a unique opportunity because each of the environmental centers highlights different components of the watershed. Each student will be immersed in learning experiences that focus on the interconnectedness of their world and develop an appreciation and sense of responsibility to protect it.

The Energy & Marine Center (EMC), located on the Gulf of Mexico, provides campers with the opportunity to study the importance of the marine and estuarine environments. Through hands on activities and instruction, students learn the importance of estuaries and how ecosystems support life.

CrossBar Ranch and Dames Caves introduces campers to a variety of amazing wilderness experiences both above and below ground. These centers cultivate the understanding of the interdependence of all living things and the importance of protecting our water resources. Campers develop an awareness and appreciation of wetlands and their importance to our ecosystems. Students move from awareness to action and become ambassadors for wetlands as they experience pine uplands, scrub oak habitats, and managed forests, as well as cypress swamps, lakes and caves.

Starkey Park introduces campers to a variety of amazing wilderness experiences. Students cultivate their understanding of the interdependence of all living things and the importance of protecting our upland resources. Campers develop an awareness and appreciation of terrestrial animals and their ecosystems. Campers move from awareness to action as they explore the earth below our feet and investigate what is in our soil.

At Crystal Springs Preserve campers will learn our about Florida’s freshwater ecosystems. Students will use dip nets in the river to catch macro-invertebrates and small fish. Students will also learn about the importance of protecting our springs and where we get our drinking water.

Each day parents will transport their children to the EMC. Students will spend two days at the EMC participating in marine educational activities. During the week, the Environmental Education Bus will transport students to Cross Bar Ranch and Dames Caves where they will investigate wetlands, uplands, and cave environments.

The cost for this 4-day camp is $180.00, family rate also available. Please complete one registration form per student and return with nonrefundable $50 deposit to Mark Butler in OLL (727) 774- 2317.