Though this spring and summer is an uncertain one, we wanted to provide an update on what we do know about summer camp so far. The local and regional health status for the Twin Tiers is subject to change, and we will continue to adjust our plans and keep you in the loop as we learn more.
So as of today, 5/26/2020, we are not sure yet if we will be able to run summer camps, but we are making plans in case we are able to do so. We want to be best prepared to run a safe, healthy, fun camp if possible, so we are planning in advance.
Here’s what we have so far:
- We will be running only one camp at a time, including children grades K-5 in that single camp group, so that siblings from a household will be together.
- Camp’s home base will be in the lodge, a separate building from the nature center, and we will be implementing a rigorous environmental cleaning routine to keep the lodge safe and disinfected. Guests and visitors are not permitted in the lodge.
- Although the weeks will not be highly focused around one topic area as in previous years, there will be general themes woven in through each week. Importantly, much of the camp day will be spent outdoors, in the fresh air.
- We will be limiting camp registration. The total number of campers allowed will be determined by Chemung County, and we don’t know what the cap will be yet. We will let you know once we know.
- Since we are not sure how many children will be allowed to attend camp each week, we are closing registration at this time. We don’t want to process new registrations until we know from the county how many kids are allowed in a single week.
- We are reducing before/after care hours. The regular camp program runs from 10am-3pm as usual. Before care and after care options will run from 9am-10am, and 3pm-4pm. Drop off before 9am or pick up after 4pm will not be possible.
- We are reducing the number of people who will come into contact with the camp children. Summer camp will be taught by two of our fantastic permanent staff members, Ian McLaughlin and Maggie Groce, with Jamie Ziegler overseeing daily operations of camp.
What next?
- If you are currently registered and would like to cancel your camp registration, please contact Deanna, our office manager. She will waive any administrative fees.
- If you are currently registered and wish to stay enrolled, no action is needed at this time!
- If Chemung County or state government determines that camp cannot run, we will fully refund all registrants.
- If you have any questions at all about curriculum or what summer camp will be like, please contact Camp Co-Directors,Jamie Ziegler and Maggie Groce.
We miss educating and we hope that your families are healthy, well, and happy – and are able to enjoy visiting our animals virtually, as well as taking time outdoors to enjoy the fresh air and trails.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work together on our plan, which will always be centered on the health and well-being of our community.