Presenting a well deserved award.

In 2003, BMMRO decided to expand their outreach program to include the local children of Sandy Point, Abaco, where the research station is based. There was a great need for environmental education, so BMMRO created a summer camp program, the first of its kind on Abaco. Sandy Point Environmental Camp (SPEC) is now established and reaches approximately 30 students each summer and is fortunate to have the help of parents, local guides, BMMRO research assistants and EarthWatch volunteers.

SPEC is broken into two age categories: Junior Camp for 7-9 year olds and Senior Camp for 10-13 year olds. Each camp session runs for three weeks and consists of approximately 6 lessons and 6 field trips. Camp lessons are interactive, conservation based, and designed to better acquaint campers with their local environment. Lessons have covered topics such as coastal ecology, recycling, astronomy, invasive species, marine mammal research and mangrove, coral reef and pine forest ecosystems. Field trips complement lessons and highlight outdoor skills such as kayaking, camping, snorkelling, and birdwatching.

Thanks for helping, Mom!

This year SPEC is partnering with Friends of the Environment (FRIENDS) a non-profit environmental education NGO based in Marsh Harbour, Abaco to expand environmental summer camps throughout Abaco. SPEC will be used as a model for camps in Marsh Harbour, Cooper's Town and the outlying cays.

2008 dates:

Camp starts on Monday 23rd June and ends on Friday 1st August

For more information about Sandy Point Environmental Camp, email us at spec4fun@hotmail.com.

Local students from SPEC on a kayaking expedition.