High Schoolers Dive into Environmental Science and Leadership

The Washington College Center for Environment & Society partnered with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation for a one of a kind, in-the-wild summer camp for teens.

This summer, 15 high school students from Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Pennsylvania gathered at the Washington College Center for Environment and Society (CES) for an immersive and transformative camp experience, organized in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) Student Leadership program. The weeklong expedition was designed as a mini-college course with the option for students to receive one credit in Environmental Science and Chesapeake Regional Studies. The course provided students with a unique opportunity to explore environmental science, innovation, and community-based solutions aimed at saving the Chesapeake Bay while getting one-of-a-kind field experience. 

This summer’s inaugural camp took place along Maryland’s Chester River, offering a beautiful and educational backdrop for participants to engage in hands-on scientific research. From kayaking and boating on a research vessel to exploring the College’s 5,000-acre River and Field Campus, students gained firsthand experience in environmental data collection and analysis. 

 Camp highlights included: 

• Fieldwork and Exploration: Students actively participated in water quality testing and ecological research, paddling through Broad Creek Pond, Radcliffe Creek, and the Chester River while gathering environmental data. 

• Laboratory Learning: Participants engaged in cutting-edge lab work, utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping technology and analyzing data to better understand the interconnectedness of land use and water quality. 

• Expert Engagement: The camp included discussions with professionals from organizations like ShoreRivers and CES’ Natural Land Project, allowing students to delve into real-world solutions to environmental challenges. 

“The students were enthusiastic learners as we conducted research, spoke with experts, and learned how to be better stewards for our watershed,” said CES Deputy Director Beth Choate, who helped steer the creation of the program.  

Throughout the camp, students not only built their scientific skills but also developed leadership abilities, learning how individual actions, community involvement, and policy changes can positively impact the Bay and surrounding watersheds and waterways.

The camp was part of a broader effort by CBF and Washington College to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders and collaboration began in earnest in the fall of 2023.  CBF hosts a variety of summer opportunities for high students through their Student Leadership Expeditions, and they wanted to create an offering that provided students with a college experience. By providing students with the tools and knowledge needed to address the challenges facing the Chesapeake Bay, the program underscored the critical role of youth in the fight to protect and preserve our natural resources. 

Stay connected with CBF and CES for upcoming opportunities to get involved in hands-on environmental education programs that make a difference. 

 - Michaela Bussey