Fernbrook Farms
Fernbrook Farms

Young Stewards Camp

Week 8: Freshwater Ecology

During week 8 of Young Stewards, campers explore how freshwater habitats can prevent erosion, filter water, and are one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth. Campers will learn the basics of freshwater ecology and investigate the diversity of life within these waters.  Campers will also have the opportunity to develop their canoeing or kayaking skills through different adventures.

In past summers we have:

  • Completed a New Jersey Lake Watch Assessment which provides the NJDEP with data to determine lake use and accessibility across the state, determine nutrient problems in specific lakes, and identify aquatic invasive species. The Young Stewards have assessed Pemberton Lake, Prospertown Lake, and the lake at Brendan T. Byrne State Forest.
  • Kayaked with Natural Lands Trust through Menantico ponds and creek system in Vineland, NJ. A Naturalist toured us through the freshwater creek system as we discovered what aquatic organisms live in and around the water, identify native, non-native, and invasive species, and took seining samples.
  • Canoed Crosswicks Creek to explore the flora and fauna of Fernbrook’s local watershed area.
  • Visited Pequest Trout Hatchery to observe how fish are raised and released in NJ waterways.
  • Fished and Canoed in many different lakes and creeks in New Jersey!
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