Nature-based Learning Opportunities
Our environmental education goal works to engage youth and families right here in our local communities, focusing on an appreciation for our unique region and ultimately leading individuals to make decisions and take actions that will improve the Downeast ecosystems and conservation efforts in the future.
Our program offerings include DCC hosted day camps on our preserves, school-based programming including field trips and classroom presentations, and community events throughout the year, many of which are family-friendly.
Day Camps:
We offer free day camps to youth in our local communities. Camp activities range from active scavenger hunts to mindful journaling all while exploring DCC preserves. Our goal is to provide campers the opportunity to connect with each other and the natural world. Offerings include:
Snow Camp: 4 days, 9am-12pm, February Break, Ages 7-9
Spring Camp: 4 days, 9am-12pm, Spring Break, Ages 7-9
Forest Camp: 4 days, 9am-3pm, July, Ages 10-13
To register a participant for camp please visit our event page.
School-based/Group Programming:
In partnership with local schools, educators, and homeschool groups DCC looks to engage students in nature based programming that connects youth to the outdoors with place-based learning and hands-on stewardship experiences. All programs are designed to teach basic concepts of ecology and conservation.
The priority is Field Trips where students and educators meet DCC staff local preserves for guided hikes, paddles and nature lessons. We can also develop service-learning opportunities.
Capacity permitting, DCC may offer to partner with schools to lead outdoor programming on school grounds. The goal would be to structure this as a program series, with a few sessions on the school grounds and a culminating field trip to a DCC preserve.
If you are interested in having Downeast Coastal Conservancy lead programming for your school or group please reach out to our staff at info@downeastcoastalconservancy.org.
