Activity Descriptions

2013 Schedule of Rates Directions to PEEC

538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 www.peec.org 570-828-2319

PEEC Activity Descriptions (E= Elementary ~ M= Middle School ~ H= High School ~ A= All) (Most lessons run 1.5 hrs. Optimum group size is 12-15 student participants.)

SCIENCE/NATURAL HISTORY Air Quality (M,H) - The students will learn common sources of air pollution, how it is measured by conducting tests, and what they can do to limit their contributions to “greenhouse gasses.”

Astronomy (M,H) – Students study the stars, the moon, and the planets in the night sky during this indoor/outdoor class. Topics of interest may also include constellations, the Milky Way, and moon phases.

Bat Study (E,M) – This lesson will cover the myths and misconceptions about bats and show stu-dents how important these creatures are to humans. The lesson also includes information on White Nose Syndrome. Activities will explore the beneficial aspects of bats, adaptations, predator/prey relationships, and life histories. Beaver Study (E,M) - An exploration into the world of beaver adaptations and life-styles. Students learn the importance of beaver presence in wetland habitats and the effects of human interaction on beaver survival. Field studies allow students the opportunity to observe signs of beaver at PEEC. Birds (E) – An introductory class on what special characteristics birds have, what we can know about birds based on their characteristics, and why birds can fly. Students will observe common birds at our feeders or outside on a trail. Eco Zone (A) - Explore and discover this unique “hands-on” room that is filled with different life-sized animal habitats (including a bat cave, a beaver lodge and eagle’s nest), sustainable living ideas and interesting animal displays. What was once the indoor pool at PEEC’s Main Building has been totally transformed! Perfect for any age, any time of year. Environmental Promise Tree (M) – This is a nice finishing activity that will help with carrying your PEEC experience back to home and school. Participants will learn about and select an action they can take to reduce their impact on the environment. The environmental promise will be written on a “leaf” to be attached to a mural of a tree. This mural can be dis-played at school to help share the PEEC experience with other students. Forest Ecology (M,H) – PEEC’s campus provides an ideal outdoor classroom for students to observe different forest communities. Students will learn about common trees in this region, the structure of forests, concepts of forest succession, and forest dynamics. Fossils (E) – Take a hike on our Fossil Trail and learn about the marine animals that used to live here! Students will hold and identify fossils and ponder how they got into the rocks. Geology (M,H) – Students will learn about the geologic history and processes that have shaped this region. Students will also learn about plate tectonics and the formation of fossils. Emphasis will be placed on understanding glacial processes and the landscapes glaciers leave behind them. For an additional charge, add a trip to a local Quarry to search for fossils. See Quarry under Field Trips.

Habitat Study (E, M) –Intimately explore the four basic categories of habitats; field, forest, edge, and aquatic. Compare their ecological, geological, and organic characteristics while studying the similarities and differences between them first hand. Interpretive Hikes (A) – The PEEC campus contains 5 hiking trails ranging in length and difficulty. Students can become familiar with the aquatic aspects of PEEC along the 1.5 mile Two Ponds Trail. Explore the 2-mile long Scenic Gorge Trail for a tour of a beautiful hemlock ravine. The 1.25-mile Fossil Trail provides a geological journey with a look into a fossil bed

containing ancient marine life forms. The most scenic of trails is the 3-mile Tumbling Waters Trail which follows various terrains

until leading hikers to a gorgeous waterfall. The longest trail at PEEC is the 4-mile Ridgeline Trail, which provides hikers with views of

many different habitats. All trails have corresponding interpretive brochures. Hikes can be led by your staff or a PEEC instructor.

Night Hike (A) – Students will take a walk in the darkness and learn through activities about night vision, human and nocturnal animals’ nighttime adaptations and will experience the woods at night without flashlights. Pond Ecology (A) – This hands-on class focuses on a pond as a unique habitat and the creatures adapted to living in a lentic water system. Students will also be able to learn how pond creatures can be used as biotic indicators in determining pond water quality. Site Study (H) - A hands-on introduction to the methods and concepts of site studies which scientists use to evaluate the health and biodiversity of a given area. This activity can be completed as a small group activity or a large group multi-session program. Soil Study (M,H) – Students will collect various soil samples and compare the physical and chem-ical properties of the samples. The lesson will investigate the origin of soil and the importance of soil to whole ecosystems. Stream Ecology (M,H) – This lesson focuses on the ecological study of one of the PEEC streams, its organisms, adaptations, metamorphosis, food webs, stream flow, riparian ecology, and water quality. This lesson can be extended to include water testing kits. Sustainability (M,H) - This new PEEC lesson focuses on land use through history and how choices made by humans have affected the environment. Town Meeting (M,H) – Students simulate a meeting of community members with different interests in a piece of public land and try to convince the ‘panel’ that their interest in the land’s use is the best use of the property. Develops individual opinions, personal values, and an understand-ing of how land-use decisions can be made. Tracking and Stalking (M,H) – Students learn about tracks and signs of many different animals through observation and investigation. They will also learn how to control one’s breathing, balance, and patience in order to get a closer look at animals.

Watershed Study (M,H) – Students will gain an understanding of the concept of a watershed through classroom and field activities. Focus is on how the characteristics of, and activities in, a watershed affect stream life and water quality and on the importance of watersheds in environmental issues and land management. Discussion will include consideration of the watershed where you live. Wildlife Study (A) –Students will learn to identify wildlife and signs of wildlife through hands-on learning inside and outside of the classroom. Focus is placed on understanding habitat, human impacts, and relationships between wildlife and their environment. Up-close examination of skins and skulls may be included. Winter Ecology (A) – Students learn about the adaptations that plants and animals have developed in order to stay alive in the winter. An exploration into topics such as hibernation, dormancy, and migration allows students the chance to understand what happens to the natural world in the winter. Other topics may include winter tree identification and snow studies.

RECREATION & ART ACTIVITIES: Campfire (A) – A PEEC staff person will prepare a fire for your group. Upon request, this time can include a fire-building lesson and/or a discussion of “Leave No Trace” responsible fire practices. S’mores available upon request for a small fee. Bring your own campfire song book to share some of your favorites with the students! Canoeing (M,H) – An introduction to canoeing basics (equipment, safety, and paddling techniques) followed by a paddling outing on one of PEEC’s ponds. Available May through October, weather permitting. Confidence Course (M,H) – Our low rope elements are personal challenge-based while our teambuilding courses are group-challenge based. They build trust, self confidence, and accomplishment within students as their peers keep them safe through proper “spotting.” Cross-Country Skiing (M,H) – An introductory lesson in basic techniques, safety, and equipment, followed by a ski tour. Shoes and skis are included in this session. Discover PEEC Scavenger Hunt (A) – Get to know PEEC by going on a scavenger hunt. A great way for visitors to become familiar with their new surroundings! Digital Scavenger Hunt (A) – A new spin on the traditional scavenger hunt! By using digital cameras or cell phone cameras to capture the finding of scavenger hunt articles, we can reduce the use of paper for this activity. Environmental Art (A) – The focus will be on using natural materials or reusing household materials to create functional items or works of art. Intro to Camping (M,H) – The focus of this session is on how to plan and prepare for spending time outdoors, such as factors to consider if you plan to do a day hike or an overnight trip. Topics/activities may include Leave No Trace Principles, fire building, knot tying, setting up a tarp, cooking outdoors, how to read a trail map and use a guide book. Journal Making (A) - Students create a journal of their own using repurposed materials. This class can be structured around a theme of your choosing.

Map Reading (E) – Get the basics of map reading by interpreting different colors and symbols, understanding the four cardinal directions, and finding one’s way from one place to another. This activity will utilize the PEEC Campus map and students will find their way to landmarks on cam-pus using the map. Nature Journaling (M,H) – Participants are encouraged to write or draw about their experiences in nature through a sequence of guided activities. Students can make or bring journals and use them to record observations, explorations, and values about the natural world. Journaling can be linked into many of the other program offerings. New Games (A) – Students will run, laugh, roll, and expend energy with active, non-competitive games. This session provides students with a fun way to work on group cooperation, coordination, and concentration! This can be done as one large group (for example, upon arrival at PEEC) or in smaller learning groups. Orienteering (M,H) – Students are taught how to use a map and compass to find orienteering markers on one of PEEC’s 3 orienteering courses. This is an empowering lesson for anyone who wants to spend time hiking or traveling outdoors. Students increase confidence within themselves and their group. PEEC Store (A)-Don’t forget to schedule a time for your students to stop at our store to pick up PEEC t-shirts, hats, bags, stuffed animals, field guides, and natural history books, as well as toiletries that may have been forgotten. Sensory Awareness (E,M) – Various activities help students understand the importance of using the senses they typically do not rely on, as well as building confidence and trust. Team Building (M,H) – A series of challenges which promote team building, cooperation and decision making within a group. Students need to work together in order to accomplish the task with minimal help from teachers or staff.

Other Program Additions for any Age Group:

Field Trips (Require additional fees including transportation.)

*Child’s Park – A 1.8 mile walk along Dingman’s Creek to enjoy scenic views, three cascading waterfalls, and the remnants of a historic wool mill.

Delaware Water Gap – A geologic phenomenon where the Delaware River has cut

a path through the Kittatinny Mountain Ridge.

Dingmans or Raymondskill Falls – Visit either or both of these majestic waterfalls located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Grey Towers – Tour the home and estate of the early conservationist, Gifford Pinchot,

former Governor of Pennsylvania and founder of the US Forest Service. Rock Quarry – A trip to a local active rock quarry to hunt for Devonian marine fossils. *pending completion of infrastructural repairs

PEEC 2013 Schedule of Rates (effective January 1, 2013)

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Full Residential Programs** Per person fee includes:

lodging, meals and PEEC

program instruction.

Minimum group size is 15.

2 days /1 night /3 meals, 5-7 PEEC Programs

3 days /2 nights /6 meals, up to 12 PEEC Programs 4 days /3 nights /9 meals, up to 18 PEEC Programs

5 days /4 nights /12 meals, up to 23 PEEC Programs

cost per person $99.00

$147.00 $202.00 $251.00

Facility Use ** Lodging,meals, and

meeting space, as determined

by group size

Minimum group size is 15.*

PEEC staff

1 night /3 meals 2 nights /6 meals 3 nights /9 meals

4 nights /12 meals Additional classes for Facility Use per 1.5 hour class for up to 15 people

(* In certain cases, if there are other groups on campus, a group size of less than 15 may be permitted.)

2 staff required for groups of 100+ -- Per Day

$82.00 $125.00 $168.00 $211.00

$60.00

$200.00

Day Use Programs Minimum group size is 15.

1 PEEC program 2 PEEC programs 3 PEEC programs 4 PEEC programs

PEEC Programs include Interpretive Hikes, Canoeing, Pond Ecology, Eco Zone, Geology,

cost per person $12.00 $22.00 $30.00 $38.00

Meals

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Late dinner (after 7pm) Snacks

Full salad bar Special dietary needs- (vegetarian, minimal kosher)

$6.50 $8.50

$12.50 $200 additional fee

$1.50 per person per snack $1 per person per meal

Need 2 weeks prior notice

Tent Site Platforms Provided cost per night $80.00/night minimum (up to 8 people) Maximum 30 people Groups over 8 – additional $8.00/person

Other Services Additional cabin beyond group size needs (w/ residential program or facility use) $100.00

Linens/person (sheets, washcloth, towel, pillow, pillowcase and blanket) $12.00 Additional Programs Live Birds of Prey, wildlife and herpetology programs, square dances etc.. Additional fees apply

Field Trips (Round Trip) 6 pass van 9 pass van Quarry $26.00 $37.00

Childs Park $31.00 $46.00

Raymondskill Falls $30.00 $45.00

Dingmans Falls $25.00 $36.00

Tom's Creek $25.00 $36.00

Delaware Water Gap $67.00 $97.00

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** Cabin Check in Time is 11:00 am. If you arrive earlier, your group’s equipment may be stored in Main Building area.

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cost per person

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Education Outreach Instructor for up to 2 hours $229.00

Instructor beyond 2 hours, per hour $79.00

Additional instructor for small group presentation $155.00

(sm. group = 15 people)

Transportation, round trip/mile $1.25

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Room Rental Main building (per classroom), pavillion $65 per hour, 2 hour minimum Dining Hall (does NOT include Kitchen use) $150/hr- 5hr minimum--$750 Craft cabin per day $100.00 Nature lodge per day $100.00 per hour 3 hr minimum

PEEC 2013 Schedule of Rates

(Continued from previous page)

Deposits

1. A non-refundable deposit of 20% is required immediately to hold reservation.

2. A second non-refundable 30% deposit is due 60 days after the date of the contract. If your scheduled arrival date is less than 60 days from the date of the contract, an initial deposit of 50% is required.

3. Up to three weeks prior to your scheduled arrival, total number of participants can be decreased by up to 20 % without penalty. Decreases in excess of 20% will be subject to forfeiture of the deposit for those participants.

4. Three weeks prior to scheduled arrival, groups are required to confirm guaranteed number of participants. If the actual number of participants falls below this number, a 50% penalty will be assessed on all no shows.

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Pocono Environmental Education Center Mission Statement

PEEC advances environmental education, sustainable living, appreciation for nature

through hands-on experience in a national park.

538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 www.peec.org 570-828-2319

Driving Directions to PEEC

The Pocono Environmental Education Center is located in northeastern Pennsylvania, approximately 20 miles from the junction of Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey, near the town of Dingmans Ferry. PEEC is within the borders of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

GPS Users: Please note that GPS navigation can be unreliable in this area. Our street address is 538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328. We are located at the intersection of Emery Road and Brisco Mountain Road. For best results, please make certain that your GPS route follows the driving directions below.

PEEC's Geographic Coordinates: N 41° 10’ 16.33’’ W 74° 54’ 52.67’’ From New York City: (Route 15 Northbound) (Note—Buses CANNOT cross at the Dingmans Bridge!) From Interstate 80 W, take New Jersey Exit #34B for Route 15 N, Sparta. Route 15 will converge with Route 206 N at Ross's Corner. Continue North on Route 206 to the Milford Bridge (toll). From the Milford Bridge, turn left on to Route 209 south and continue South on Route 209 for approximately 12 miles until you see the signs indicating a right turn for PEEC at Brisco Mountain Rd. When the road forks bear right at stop sign and PEEC will be on your right. (Approximate 2 hour travel time) CARS ONLY shortcut — From Route 206 North turn left onto Route 560 and follow signs for Dingmans Ferry Bridge. After crossing bridge turn left at 1st traffic light onto 209 South. Turn right on Brisco Mt. Road and follow directions above. From Philadelphia, PA: Take the Blue Route (476) to NE Extension; look for Exit 56 to Route 22 E. Take 22E to Route 33 N to-wards the Poconos and Stroudsburg. Route 33 will merge with Route 209. Follow signs for Interstate 80 E. Take Route 80 E to PA Exit 309 for Marshalls Creek/Route 209. Follow Route 209N for approximately 17 miles. Between mile marker 8 & 9 on Route 209 you will see two signs for PEEC. The first sign is a 1/2-mile before the left turn and the second is directly across from the turn. Turn left onto Brisco Mountain Road. At the top of the hill, bear right and PEEC will be on your right. (Approximate 2 hour travel time) From Harrisburg, PA: (Interstate 80 Eastbound) Take Interstate 81 N to 80 E to Exit 309 N for Marshalls Creek/Route 209. Follow Route 209N for 17 miles. You will see two signs for PEEC between mile marker 8 & 9 on Route 209. The first sign is 1/2-mile before the left turn and the second is directly across from the turn. Turn left onto Brisco Mountain Road. When the road forks bear right at stop sign and PEEC will be on your right. From Scranton, PA :(Interstate 84 Eastbound) Take Lord's Valley Exit, Route 739 S. Follow 739 S for approximately 14 miles, until you come to the traffic light in Dingmans Ferry. Turn right at the light onto Route 209 S. Continue on Route 209 S for approxi-mately 5 miles until you see the signs indicating a right turn for PEEC at Brisco Mountain Rd. When the road forks bear right at stop sign and PEEC will be on your right. From Middletown, NY: (Interstate 84 Westbound) Take the Matamoras Exit (first exit in Pennsylvania). Turn left off of the exit for Route 209 S. Continue to Milford, PA, where you will make a left turn at the traffic light. Continue South on Route 209 for approxi-mately 13 miles until you see the signs indicating a right turn for PEEC at Brisco Mountain Rd. When the road forks bear right at stop sign and PEEC will be on your right.

POCONO ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER

538 Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 www.peec.org 570-828-2319