“From the Mountains to the Ocean”:

Day Camp Inspires Ocean Awareness and Conservation in Estill County Youth.

Although Kentucky is landlocked, it didn’t stop 86 youth from exploring the wonders of the ocean during the summer Day Camp titled “From the Mountains to the Ocean.” The camp was hosted by Estill County Extension Office 4-H programming and overseen by 4-H Assistant, LaDonna Dawes. It brought the sights, science, and stewardship of the sea to life right inside the community. 

In addition to the 86 youth and Ms. Dawes, other camp participants and supporters ranged from Kentucky Extension Agents, staff, volunteers, and the guest educators from the Wave Foundation of Newport Aquarium. Many local sponsors also stepped up by helping with various aspects and donations in support of the event as well. 

Program Activities and Learning Highlights include:

Hermit Crab Habitat Exploration:
 Campers learned about hermit crabs’ needs, natural habitat, and the care required to keep them healthy. Many were surprised to learn that hermit crabs need more than just a shell—they require proper humidity, temperature, and enrichment. This session helped young people understand that taking care of animals is a responsibility, not just a novelty.

Ocean Food Chain & Seaweed Tasting:
 Youth participated in a hands-on food chain activity, with Estill FCS Agent and NEP Program Assistant, by creating sea turtle-themed snacks using freeze-dried kiwi and grapes. Also, they each tried dried seaweed—an exciting (or disgusting) first for most!! This sensory and flavorful activity deepened their understanding of marine ecosystems and encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones with new foods.

Sea Turtle Conservation:
 Campers were introduced to the seven species of sea turtles, learned which are endangered, what threatens their survival, and why their preservation matters. Youth made a mixed media sea turtle art piece to take home as a visual reminder of the importance of marine conservation.

Penguin & Blubber Science:
 In a crowd-favorite experiment, youth compared the insulation power of “blubber” (using Crisco-filled plastic bag “gloves”) by dipping their bare hands in icy water. This interactive demo gave them a better understanding of how marine mammals like penguins adapt to cold ocean environments.

Shark Encounter with The WAVE Foundation:
 In a dynamic, hands-on presentation, The WAVE Foundation brought a live shark, and a sampling of real shark artifacts to use in an engaging lesson about the shark species. They discussed facts, behaviors, and myths. Youth learned how sharks play a critical role in ocean health and why they deserve protection rather than fear.

Due to the incredible 4-H Day Camp event in 2025, an increased awareness of ecosystems and the importance of ocean conservation was emphasized with local youth. Hands on learning, interesting subjects, and live animals like hermit crabs and sharks, have broadened the horizon of future possibilities for this group of young people by sparking new curiosities. The expectation is that the exposure to hands-on subject matter and immersive learning, not normally experienced by all youth in the Appalachian Mountain areas of Kentucky, will bring an increased awareness of their personal impact on wildlife and natural resources going forward.