Summer Field Ecology Program 2013
The children’s Summer Field Ecology Program consists of nine one-week explorations of the Quogue Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas. Based on your child’s grade entry level for the coming fall, he/she may attend one session of the Ecology Program.
This summer marks the 44th Anniversary that the Summer Ecology Program has been in existence. With this hands-on intense exploration the children will learn some of nature’s secrets, and how important the natural world is. Your child will complete this program with more knowledge and a great respect for the natural world. We hope these lessons will be carried with your child throughout their lives.
Download the 2013 Summer Ecology Program Application »
Children’s Field Ecology Program- For children entering grades 2-6
This program will explore the infamous areas of the Refuge including the super secret, extra squishy mud trail! Find the magic at Fairy Dell and get a taste of Chocolate Pudding Pond. We will even journey all the way to Dune Road to seine for slippery fish and quick crabs! Remember to wear sturdy shoes and dress to get wet every day! Classes run Monday through Friday, 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. Repeaters entering grades 5-6 will be off on Thursday, July 4th, and will have a night hike on Friday from 7:00 P.M. to 10:30 P.M. Parent drivers will be needed to help transport children on Thursday to and from Dune Road.
Young Explorers Program & Explorers Program-For kids entering grades 6-9
Visit all of your old favorite places, explore by kayak, and enjoy off-site field trips. Program Hours are: Monday 9A.M. – 12:00 P.M., Tuesday 9:00 A.M – 4:00 P.M., Wednesday 9:00 A.M – 4:00 P.M., Thursday 9:00 A.M – 12:00 P.M., return Thursday evening at 7:00 P.M. for a night walk in search of owls, bats and adventure! Young Explorers have a pick up time of 10:30 P.M. on Thursday, and the Explorer’s group will have an awesome campout here on the Refuge and get picked up at 9:00 A.M. on Friday morning. Tuesday is off-site to Sunken Forest, Fire Island; and Wednesday is off-site kayak adventure on the Peconic River. Parent drivers will be needed to help transport the campers. Further information will be given on the Monday during the brief introduction.
Adventure Week – For kids entering grades 10-12
Looking for adventure? Join Refuge staff and individuals your age in a quest for adventure. This week is packed with exciting and spectacular journeys. Explore & discover Eastern Long Island while hiking, kayaking, & camping. We will also be returning to the muddiest parts of the Refuge for SUPER SECRET MUD TRAIL DAY!!!! Monday and Tuesday is on site from 9:00 to 1:00. Wednesday morning at 9:00 AM, we will leave for our off site kayaking/camping expedition and will be returning Friday late afternoon.
Little Naturalists – for kids ages 4, 5, 6
This program is designed to introduce and emerge young children into nature through exploring the outdoors, hands on activities, games, crafts, and meeting many of the Refuge animals up close. The children will learn respect for the natural world and will have lots of fun in the process. A variety of topics will be introduced to the children including forest and pond habitats, food chains, local plants and animals, birds of prey, animal defenses and adaptations, composting and recycling. This program is full of fun & education and is a great way for children to learn about the natural world that surrounds them! During this program, the children do not get wet or muddy. Children can register for more than one session. Each session consists of three days: a Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
*We ask that a parent or guardian stay for the brief introduction on the first day of your child’s program, which is held in the Nature Center. Due to limited class size, popularity of the program, and priority registration for members, sessions may fill up. So please sign up early and include completed Application, Medical Form, and Payment. You will be notified as soon as possible if the session is full.
Assistant Program:
The Refuge staff relies on volunteer help for a successful program. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age and are needed between the hours of 8:30 A.M. and 12:30 P.M. Responsibilities include assisting counselors with set up and clean up, as well as helping to guide the children in activities. If your child is interested in becoming an assistant, please contact the Refuge.
Scholarships:
Scholarships are available to help ensure that financial circumstance do not restrict a child from participating in this program. Please call or write the Refuge for more details.
CANCELLATION REFUND WILL BE GRANTED IF CANCELLATION IS RECEIVED TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO START DATE OF SESSION.
For questions, call the Nature Center at 631-653-4771
