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Figure 10. Shadow student holding a black bear cub to keep it warm. Nearby
researchers supervise the student and radiocollar the cub’s mother. |
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Though the program
has been active since 1991 and has received national attention in the field of education,
it was not formalized until August 1996. Then, in August 1998, the Minnesota State
Legislature appropriated $300,000 to the Mid-State Educational District for expansion and
coordination of the program. There are 25 shadow sites to choose from, ranging from
wastewater treatment plant operation to the study of many types of wildlife (Figure 10).
Other educational programs at Camp Ripley are outlined below.
- Training Soldiers in environmental issues.
The Environmental office has produced
numerous educational supplements directed towards incoming troops. These products include
informational field cards, handbooks, videos, and posters. They inform troops generally
about sensitive environmental areas and specifically about the risks of Lyme Disease,
where and when it is appropriate to cut brush and dig trenches, and how to identify poison
ivy and other important species.
- Public awareness programs and group activities related to natural resource conservation.
Presentations and group activities by Camp Ripley Environmental office staff reach
about 5,000 students each year. Audiences for these programs include school, church, boy
and girl scouts, 4-H, and other youth groups. Programs include an annual two-week Youth
Camp with nature hikes, field classes, and training in field techniques. Other projects
include an annual Water Festival for Morrison County, National Public Lands Appreciation
Day and Earth Day.
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