Environmental Camp has been a staple field trip experience in Franklin County Schools over the past 9 years. Despite turnover in 4-H Agents and Covid-19 the EE Camping Program remains strong. During the 2022-2023 school year, Franklin County took 6 schools to JM Feltner 4-H Camp for an overnight field trip experience. Currently during the 2023-2024 school year, Franklin County 4-H has already taken 4 school groups, with 4 more on the calendar for the school year. Over 700 youth and 110 volunteers will be involved in Environmental Education Camp. 

4-H Agents, and school teachers work together to plan camp classes and align them to school standards. The overnight field trip experience allows for youth to be outside, step away from technology and try new things. For many youth, this is their first overnight camping experience, or time away from home.

Franklin County 4-H collaborates closely with JM Feltner Camp Staff members Kevin Pettigrew, and Tanner Cecil to implement the camp. Classes were offered in subjects such as rocketry, canoeing, low ropes/challenge course, bird study, nature hike, fishing, and more. Youth had the opportunity to gain confidence and develop skills such as responsibility and teamwork. 

Collaboration with Anderson County Extension Agents, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, NRCS, University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, and North Central 4-H Camp we were able to provide hands on learning in water quality, soil/erosion, mammals, bird study, heritage cooking, fishing, Kentucky History and to develop life-enduring skills such as teamwork, and responsibility.