Pond

Henry David Thoreau describes a pond in this way, “A field of water betrays the spirit that is in the air. It is continually receiving new life and motion from above. It is intermediate between land and sky.”  At camp, we call that the water cycle and describe our pond as FUN.

Our pond is:

• A calm and beautiful place
• A safe haven for wildlife, especially turtles and fish.
• A hot spot for ecological bio-diversity. The “edge” effect, or the area where two different ecosystems meet, is known to increase diversity significantly. The edges of the ponds are important areas for a diversity of plants and wildlife. Our pond attracts and provides a sanctuary of breeding for indigenous wildlife in our neighborhood, like dragonflies, frogs, and birds. When we get the campers to be quiet and sit still long enough wildlife shows up.
• Creates environmental awareness. Getting our campers involved and thinking about nature early in life encourages them to continue their interest in the environment throughout adulthood. Children learn how a complete, natural ecosystem works. It can also help them understand the responsibility we all have for caring for our environment, which can ignite their interest in creating a better future for our planet and keep litter off Shelton Beach Road.
• A place to learn the “J” stroke and other skills of canoeing.