Nova Scotia Youth Use Fun and Creativity
to Teach Enviro Message

By Alexis Bahry, Youth Journalist

Toronto, June 9, 1997 -- This summer, kids in Nova Scotia can learn about ecosytems, wildlife and environmental challenges from lively characters like Zippy the Fungus and Evil Bootblack. Zippy and his fellow enviro-creatures make appearances at the newly developed Oasis Nature Day Camp for kids. The camps are the brain child of 23 year-old Bryce Hartnell, who started the camp as a pilot project for environmental education three years ago.

The camps focus on environmental learning, and present concepts through imaginative skits, games and activities. Hartnell says the unique approach of the program helps kids feel connected to nature.

The thriving program now empowers hundreds of young people about their role in the environment, and has won the support of local communities, environmental and recreational groups, and corporate sponsors. The camps have expanded into several communities, and now employ over 20 youth staff.

Hartnell also acknowledges that the camps have the potential for an even broader reach. The concepts of environmental education and individual responsibility are parts of a larger shift toward sustainable development. He hopes that by keeping the program " flexible, focused, and able to adapt to other communities and countries", he can expand the program and the message within Canada and to other nations.

 

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