Lincoln Memorial Gardens and Nature Center ecology camps are officially underway this summer for youth. Ecology camps offer children ages 4-15 the chance to explore the varied ecosystems of Illinois including the prairie, woodlands, wetlands and savanna. The camps are held during the dayfrom 8:30-3:30 p.m. Students can participate in either half day or full day sessions.

Each week campers participate in onsite studying, taking hikes and spending time outdoors learning about the environment. The camp is designed to cultivate respect and appreciation for environment and inspire a sense of wonder through direct experiences. Many students return each year to camp. Many of the camp counselors, who are college students, attended ecology camp when they were young.

Weeklong sessions include nature hikes, outdoor games, hands-on activities, nature crafts, and animal and plant encounters. Students also spend time indoors at the Lincoln Memorial Gardens Nature Center learning more about nature.Students stay busy throughout the day with various activities, hikes and special crafts. Camp Director, Audra Walters, Environmental Educator at Lincoln Memorial Gardens, said "camps are held rain or shine and as much time as possible is spent outside."

Each day begins with a pledge to the earth. "I pledge allegiance to the Earth and to all life that it nourishes--all growing things and all species of animals and all races of people. I promise to protect all life on our planet to live in harmony with nature and to share our resources justly. So that all people can live in dignity in good health and peace."

This year, University of Illinois Extension Logan-Menard-Sangamon Master Naturalist volunteers are assisting with the camps.

The Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center is located at 2301 East Lake Drive in Springfield. Visit their website at www.lincolnmemorialgarden.org.