Camp Life

Summer camp is an ideal place to develop a green perspective. At camp, the natural world is up close and personal. In this setting, campers are presented with a unique opportunity to consider their relationship with the environment and how they may influence the future.

Most camps in the Ontario Camping Association (OCA) incorporate aspects of environmental education into their camp programs. Such initiatives often include a low-impact approach to canoe-tripping and in-camp Earth Education programs and activities. Many camps offer year-round Outdoor Education programs designed to enhance the school curriculum in various subject areas.

At Glen Bernard Camp, a residential camp for girls located near Sundridge, Ontario, this concept is expressed through the motto "Live Lightly." Like many OCA camps, we continue our ongoing commitment to gradually add new, environmentally friendly programs, equipment and facilities.

The "Loon" is a solar-powered pontoon boat built by Tamarack Lake Electric Boat Co. in Orillia, Ontario. The Glen Bernard "Loon," purchased in 2006, is the first boat of its kind in Canada. Six solar panels on the boat's canopy capture up to 738 watts--enough energy to run the boat for 10 hours on solar power alone. The boat's operation is almost silent and the absence of gasoline eliminates water pollution. The operating cost of a solar boat is over 99% less than the operating cost of a gas-powered boat.

Many camps invest in composting toilet facilities as earth-friendly alternatives to flush-toilet septic systems. One of the newest composting toilet buildings incorporates a solar energy educational panel. The panel displays how much energy campers conserve through the use of solar power and how much solar energy is re-directed back into the camp's power grid.

Living Lightly means using the Earth wisely for the benefit of future generations. Camps continue to seek ways to help campers develop an appreciation for sustainable, low-impact living--an essential skill to ensure a successful future for our global community.

Make the green connection with Glen Bernard Camp