For Immediate Release:

State Conservation Camp Taking Applications for 2009 Camp

Are you a teenager interested in the outdoors? Would you like to like to learn new skills and meet new friends from across the state? If you do West Virginia State Conservation Camp is the natural place for you. The 68^th annual West Virginia State Conservation will be held at Camp Caesar in Cowen, West Virginia June 15-20, 2009.

Referred to as “The Outdoor Open Door,” West Virginia State Conservation Camp represents one of the oldest and largest conservation education opportunities in the country. This annual environment-focused experience gives teens interested in enjoying and protecting West Virginia’s natural resources many opportunities to learn about their economic and social values, explore potential career opportunities, and have meaningful outdoor experiences.

During the action packed week, campers will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of fun yet educational workshops led by natural resource professionals. Topics featured include water resources, flora and fauna, recreation, conservation and forestry. Following morning workshops, campers can try their hand at new challenges or polish existing skills including archery, fishing, outdoor cooking, boating, rappelling, and marksmanship. Evening sports, campfires and social events round out the daily activities.

West Virginia State Conservation campers must be 14 years of age by January 1, 2009 and no older than 18 years of age on the first day of camp. The cost of camp is $150. Parents/young adults can pay for camp on their own, but scholarships, generously provided by various agencies, organizations and civic groups are usually available to help pay for part if not all of the camp costs. It is best to apply early to ensure scholarship availability. The cost of each scholarship covers food, lodging, and insurance for the week. The registration deadline is June 1, 2009. Late registration is accepted if space is available.

Additional details about the camp and registration information are available on the web – http://wvconservationcamp.com. Individual assistance is available from Ben Spong, Camp Chairman, with the WVU Extension Service by email - This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone 304-293-9425 or Al Miller, Camp Secretary, by mail -West Virginia State Conservation Camp, HC 32, Box 33, Upper Tract, WV 26866 or by phone 304-358-3298.