The Tribune

ECO CAMPERS from throughout the Bahamas recently returned home after participating in an exciting week-long camp for students aged 13–16, where they learned about the ecology and culture of Andros, and the importance of conserving natural resources.

During the camp, students spent time learning about wildlife in Andros, the importance of conservation, the Andros barrier reef, critically endangered species, blue holes and much more. Campers also visited various areas in Andros including Red Bays, Lowe Sound, Andros North Marine Park and Blue Hole National Park. They had a special visit by owner/operator of Stafford Creek Lodge, BNT council member and president of the Bahamas Sport-fishing Conservation Association (BSCA), Captain Prescott Smith who gave a presentation and inspired campers to continue on their journey in learning about the environment.

“The experience afforded to me this past week is one I will never forget,” said Janae, an EcoCamper from Nassau. “I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge from this amazing programme. Attending the EcoCamp introduced me to new things, new people and new ideas.”

The participants camped in the wilderness, swam in blue holes, enjoyed music around camp fires, swam along the barrier reef in Andros, participated in an outreach event, spoke to spongers, straw crafters and wood carvers and even spotted a Bahama Oriole. The Bahama Oriole is a critically endangered bird that is found only on the Island of Andros, and there are fewer than 260 individual birds left on earth.

“EcoCamp teaches participants more about Bahamian ecosystems than any book can,” said Scott Johnson, BNT education officer. “It allows them to physically interact with the environment, whether it be snorkelling in our cool turquoise waters, hiking in and savouring the sweet, pungent fragrance of the Bahamian pine forest or being serenaded by the melodious birds that inhabit our coppice forest. It pushes students to bring out talents that they didn’t know they had and strengthens their desire to become good stewards of our environment.”

“The BNT operates a suite of great environment educational programmes, like EcoCamp. We could not do what we do for these young people without the support of especially our valued sponsors, and conservation partners,” said Portia Sweeting, BNT education director. “Effective conservation is only accomplished through a team effort. Just as the natural systems are connected, conservation efforts must build upon and complement each other.”

Campers were given a take home project to complete on conservation, and now that they’re back home, the BNT hopes that campers will take their lessons on conservation with them.