JUNCTION CITY -- Kansas youngsters between the ages of 10 and 12 who enjoy the outdoors should make plans to attend the Outdoor Adventure Camp (OAC), sponsored by the Kansas Wildlife Federation (KWF). The camp, now in its 15th year, will be held at the Camp WaShunGa area of Rock Springs 4-H Center south of Junction City. The event runs Sunday, June 12, through Friday, June 17. In past years, OAC has been held in late July but scheduling conflicts pushed the event up to June.

OAC mornings will be spent examining the various plants and animals of the area. Session titles include "Insects," "Mammalogy," "Reptiles and Amphibians," "Fish Management," "Wildlife Management," "Wetlands," "Birds," and "Stream Ecology." Afternoon session will include seminars entitled "Birds of Prey," "Skins and Skulls," "Bats," "Stream Trailer," and "Enviroscape." Ecology, wetlands, riparian areas, and watersheds are other subjects covered. Instructors from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas State University, the National Resource Conservation Service, county conservation districts, Riley County Fish and Game, 4-H, and other organizations will conduct the sessions.

Because the prairie doesn't go to sleep at sundown, neither will participants. Owl watches, star-gazing, and bat observation are among the camp's nighttime activities. Evening swims are also on the agenda, as are campfires, storytelling, and an evening fishing tournament.

Other activities include scavenger hunts, water sports, shooting sports, arts and crafts, and horseback riding. A day-trip to the Milford Nature Center and Fish Hatchery is also planned.

The fee for the entire week is $215. Space is limited, and the registration deadline is June 8. Send application and full fee to Outdoor Adventure Camp, Theresa Berger, 406 S. New York Ave., Sylvan Grove, KS 67481. Checks should be made out to the Kansas Wildlife Federation. For more information or an application, phone 785-526-7466 or email bergkwf@wtciweb.com. Several sportsman's groups have scholarships available. KWF and the Outdoor Writers of Kansas have helped youngsters who may need assistance.

This event is also in need of volunteer counselors who are willing to spend a week supervising youngsters. Anyone interested should contact the above phone number or email address.
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