ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAMS (ELPS)
The Oswegatchie Educational Center offers 2-day Environmental and Leadership Development Programs both in the fall and spring. Camp O is situated on a 1,200 acre expanse of land inside the Adirondack Park and is owed by the NYS FFA. Our campers worked on building relationships within their group and also the other school (Schoharie) that joined us. They practiced problem solving skills, cooperation and teamwork while tackling the high/low ropes course and ground games. They also developed an appreciation for forest and bird ecology while sneaker creaking and paddling. They encountered a bald eagle, owls, blue herons and Canada Geese as well as numerous ducks. The weather was absolutely gorgeous so water games (splashing and swimming) were enjoyed in between bird observations. Mr. Barkman stayed mostly dry but some of the others... not so much. He did 'school' them in how to use the kayak paddles to create better splash patterns:-)
We also enjoyed a 2 mile night hike- no flashlights, a campfire complete with smores, lots of gaga pit, volleyball, table tennis and great food! Nearby Fort Drum was very active so we saw LOTS of jets and Blackhawks... probably enjoying the peak leaf season like we did!
-Mr. Barkman, RSCS Ag and Tech Teacher
