The 15th annual Coral Reef Ed-venture Summer Camp came to a close on Wednesday July 9th during a special graduation in which 126 children were recognized. The camp was organized by students from Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, United States of America (USA), with assistance from Hol Chan Marine Reserve on Ambergris Caye. The participants of the camp were named Kids Coral Reef Experts after attending the events from June 23rd to July 4th.
The students were divided into advanced (ages 13 to 18) and junior (ages 7-12) groups, where they learned about ecology conservation. Using several teaching strategies and techniques, the Smith College students educated the camp participants on economic, ecological, and aesthetic benefits that coral reefs provide to Belize and the importance in protecting the coral reef and eco-system that forms a part of the natural environment. Some of the activities included mangrove observation, a field trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve onboard the glass bottom boat, a presentation by American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) on crocodile habitats, and a conservation presentation by Judy Waight of the Belize Coalition to Save our Natural Heritage.
At the graduation held at the Lions Den, the camp participants presented skits, songs and other work done during the camp in front of invited guests, including some parents. The participants were all presented with certificates that recognized them as Kids Coral Experts.
Congratulation to all the participants of the camp and the students from students from Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts for making the Coral Reef Ed-Ventures camp a success.
