Fernbrook Farms Summer Enrichment Program focuses on local history, agriculture, ecology and community building. The program is offered to 20 children, ages 12-14, for 8 weeks from July 6 - 31, and August 10 - September 4.
Space is very limited — sign up early! Download the Summer Enrichment Program Registration Form (PDF, 238kB) and mail with your payment.
Campers will spend their days exploring Fernbrook, as well as local forests and waterways. Guided by two experienced and well-qualified staff persons, campers will spend their time on and off the farm engaging in activities that promote leadership, teamwork and ecological awareness. During off-site field trips twice a week, campers will visit local farms, hike the pitch-pine forests of the Jersey Pine Barrens, explore the coastline & paddle local waterways and engage in a weekly beautification project.
By working together and experiencing nature on and off the farm, campers will gain an appreciation for the interconnectedness of local history, agriculture and ecology. Not only will they develop an understanding of the natural world, but also an understanding of themselves and a “sense of place” within this world. Each day will provide the opportunity for new adventures, fun and learning.
Week 1 & 5 — Down the Shore: A Look at Coastal Ecology
We’ve all caught the waves and been buried in the sand, but now you can learn first hand about the natural processes that created the NJ coastline that we all enjoy.
Campers will gain an understanding of barrier island ecosystems, watch the shore birds and hike a maritime forest during this week of camp. This weeklong program is designed to give campers hands-on opportunities to investigate our coastal heritage and gain an understanding of barrier island ecosystems.
Field Trips: Cattus Island State Park, Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge
Week 2 & 6 — Get Lost in Forest Ecology
Using a map and compass campers will hike local trails to learn about the Eastern Deciduous forest that makes up much of the Northeast. They will discover the importance of our forests for their aesthetics, contribution to building materials, food, ingredients in medicines and their natural ability to clean air and water.
Field Trips: Washington Crossing, Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area
Week 3 & 7 — Water for Life! The Importance of Freshwater Wetlands
What prevents erosion, filters water, and is one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth? Campers will learn this and more as we investigate freshwater wetlands; a local resource that’s crucial to the health of all other ecosystems, wildlife and humans.
Field Trips: Crosswicks Creek Paddle with Friends of the Marsh, Rancocas State Park
Week 4 & 8 — Piney Exploration
We might not see the Jersey Devil during this week, but campers will definitely see the Pine Barrens from cranberry bogs to endangered species. Field trips will give campers the chance to experience the pitch-pine forests and the winding cedar-water rivers that have enabled unique plants and animals to thrive in this region.
Field Trips: Batsto River Paddle, Batona Trial Hike