Sign up now for Green Mountain Conservation Camps
January 19, 2023 | By Waterbury Roundabout 
Youngsters ages 12 to 14 interested in learning about Vermont's wildlife and gaining outdoor skills can sign up now for a session of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department's Green Mountain Conservation Camps this summer.
The one-week camp programs are held at Lake Bomoseen in Castleton and Buck Lake in Woodbury. Campers participate in hands-on learning about fish and wildlife conservation, ecology, forestry, orienteering, safe firearm and archery techniques. Activities include swimming, canoeing, fishing and more.
During the week, various natural resource professionals share information on their programs and take campers out for field activities.
“Whether kids come alone or with friends, they are guaranteed to meet new people and form new bonds while experiencing Vermont’s natural resources to the fullest,” said Hannah Phelps, a Fish and Wildlife education specialist. “An important take-away message and common theme during the week is that conserving and managing habitat will help ensure Vermont will have fish and wildlife in the future.”
In addition to new campers ages 12-14, the programs welcome back those teens who have previously attended a session to take part in a more advanced camp experience. “Advanced sessions are for campers who have completed a basic session in a previous summer and who are 16 years old or younger,” Phelps explained. “Advanced sessions include more in-depth activities about backpacking, camping, natural resources, and unique hunting and fishing techniques.”
Swimming at Buck Lake and a group session during a summer Green Mountain Conservation Camp. VT Fish & Wildlife photos
Conservation Camps run from June 18 through Aug. 18. Tuition is $250 for the week, including food, lodging and equipment, and financial assistance is available.
More information and registration are available online. Registration is ongoing on a first-come-first-served basis. Contact via email or phone at FWGMCC@vermont.gov and 802-522-2925.