fern & feather day camp...seashore, marsh, pond, forest and field. test your own survival skills...

FERN & FEATHER DAY CAMP

Discover. Explore. Be Outside.

2020

Explore the nature of Martha’s Vineyard at the 194-acre Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary.

Registration opens early January 2020. Early registration is encouraged to secure your preferred dates. Price is per week.

Welcome to FERN & FEATHER DAY CAMP

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Call 508-627-4850

Email [email protected]

Visit massaudubon.org/felixneckcamp

A TYPICAL DAY AT CAMP8:30 am Optional Before-Camp Program

9:00 am Camper Drop-off & Choice Time

9:15 am Morning Circle

9:30–10:30 am Nature Theme Intro & Snack

10:30 am–12:00 pm Activities & Explorations

12:00–12:45 pm Half-Day Camper Pick-up, Lunch & Story Time

12:50–2:15 pm Activities, Crafts & Games

2:30 pm: Full-Day Camper Pick-up

2:30–3:45 pm Optional After-Camp Program

OUR CAMP DIRECTORThis will be Josey Kirkland’s 8th summer as Camp Director. She is forever passionate about connecting people to the natural world and looks forward to exploring the beauty this island has to offer and sharing it with others.

1

TRY IT OUT—Camp for a day Ages 4–10 Wednesday–Friday, June 17–19 9:00 am–2:30 pm

$80 members; $96 nonmembers per day

New to camp? Try it out for a day! Campers actively investigate and observe their surroundings, make their own discoveries, and most of all, have fun! Sessions incorporate outdoor games, hands-on nature activities, wildlife observation hikes, stories, crafts, and more!

CAMPER AGE GROUPS Age 4 • Ages 5–6 • Ages 7–8 • Ages 9–10

Into the Wild Wednesday, June 17 Set out to explore the many habitats at Felix Neck. See how they differ and which animals call the forest, field, and water home.

Track-tastic Thursday, June 18 Even when we don’t see wildlife, there are plenty of clues to let us know they’re around. Look for signs of resident animals to determine who has been doing what, and where, at Felix Neck.

Earth Heroes Friday, June 19 Do you like the outdoors and care about wildlife? Learn to be a hero of the earth: hike trails without leaving a trace, create art with recycled material, and learn how your actions can make this planet more beautiful.

Before & After Camp OptionsOur Before Camp and After Camp programs provide opportunities for unstructured fun in a safe, supportive environment.

BEFORE-CAMP: 8:30–9:00 am$40/week, members and nonmembers

Campers spend their pre-camp morning engaged

in games or crafts.

AFTER-CAMP: 2:30–3:45 pm$100/week, members and nonmembers

Available for all campers except Discoverers. Campers have a snack

(brought from home) and hike, explore, and play games.

AFTER-CAMP OPTION FOR DISCOVERERS 12:00–2:30 pm$100/week members and nonmembers

Discoverers can spend a full day, eat lunch (brought from home),

and extend exploration.

2

3

Extended-Day Options Available (see page 2)

Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 5

This half-day program

encourages a young child’s

curiosity, increases sensory

awareness, and provides

an introduction to nature.

Exciting adventures may

include catching bugs,

touching turtles, making

animal inspired crafts, and

more! Price includes a camp

T-shirt, a camp patch, and a

group photo.

Backwood Explorers June 22–26, July 13–17 Make a pair of binoculars, grab a map and compass, and hit the trails to explore Felix Neck! Discover different wildlife species and learn about their various survival techniques.

Furry Friends June 29–July 3, August 17–21 We’ll have a great time discovering different mammals that live on the Island and learn about the differences between mammals and other animals.

Nature Sense July 6–10, August 10–14 Stop, look, listen, feel, and taste! Use all of your senses to determine which flowers smell best, what different tree bark feels like, which of nature’s edible treats are the sweetest, and more.

Creepy Crawlies July 20–24, August 24–28 Bugs, slugs, snakes, salamanders—if it’s slippery or wriggly, we’ll find it! Explore the field, the woods, and the dirt in search of the Island’s creepiest critters

Feathered Friends July 27–31 What makes a bird a bird, and how does it fly? We’ll investigate our feathered friends through stories, crafts, and outdoor exploration as we hit the trails.

Baby Animals August 3–7 Explore a variety of baby animals, from chicks to fawns to polliwogs. Learn why some need to be nurtured for months, while others are ready to run, jump, or fly right away, and see how they survive in the wild.

DISCOVERERSAges 4–5*$287 members | $362 nonmembers

Monday–Friday 9:00 am–12:00 pm

*exceptions made for enrolled Fern & Feather Preschool Students ages 3 and up

We choose Fern &

Feather because of

EVERYTHING!! He adored

the counselors and

learning about nature.

And told me he wanted

to do camp every day of

his life. He loved every

moment of it!!

— 2019 Camp Parent



The Pathfinders program

balances play, art, sensory

exploration, and hands-on

activities as campers discover

nature. Activities include

hiking, nature-themed games,

making crafts, exploring with

nets, and storytelling. Price

includes a camp T-shirt, a camp

patch, and a group photo.

Animal Instincts June 22–26, August 17–21 Think like a rabbit and act like a deer. Nature-themed games and activities will help us understand animal behavior. Discover how different animals see, smell, hunt, hide, and travel.

Aqua Critters June 29–July 3 Cool and wet: see what it’s like for critters of all kinds—including frogs, crabs, snails, fish, and whales—to live in the water by exploring their water habitats.

Earth and Sky July 6–10 Hunt for earthworms, watch clouds, and roam the field and forest as we explore high, low, and everywhere in between. Learn about the many wonders of nature on our big, beautiful planet.

Wet and Wild July 13–17 Discover the ins and outs of Felix Neck’s water habitats. While splashing around in our freshwater and saltwater ponds, take a close look at the plants and animals that call them home.

Dig It! July 20–24 Discover the world beneath your feet! Slippery salamanders, many-legged millipedes, spitting clams, and camouflaged crabs are some of the fascinating wildlife you might find on our daily explorations.

Things with Wings July 27–31, August 24–28 Hummingbirds hum, hawks soar, and dragonflies zip through the sky. Animals that fly are fun and exciting to investigate. Use binoculars, nets, and bug boxes to get a close look at the adaptations that allow these animals to fly so high.

All Creatures Great & Small August 3–7 Spend all week looking for as many creatures as you can find. How are critters of all sizes, shapes, and species important to the Island’s ecosystems?

Mighty Mammals August 10–14 An otter swims, so why is it a mammal and not a fish? Discover the differences between mammals and other animals such as fish, and find out which mammals make their home on the Island.

PATHFINDERSEntering grades K–1 $402 members | $477 nonmembers • Monday–Friday 9:00 am–2:30 pm

4

5

EXPLORERSEntering grades 2–3$402 members | $477 nonmembers




Explorers investigate

different plants and

animals in an interactive

way, furthering campers’

connection to the natural

world. Price includes a camp

T-shirt, a camp patch, and a

group photo.

Marine Muckers June 22–26, August 17–21 Mucky, salty, and wet: look for crabs and eels in the marsh, search the tidal flats for clams and shorebirds, and scoop up schooling fish along the shoreline. Get wet and muddy as you discover some of the Island’s most incredible critters.

Survival of the Fittest June 29–July 3 Stealthy flight, tough armor, or wily ways: which would you choose to stay alive in the wild? Discover special adaptations that allow

different plants and animals to survive, and test your own survival skills through games, shelter building, and more!

Bright and Beautiful July 6–10 Search for the brightest flower, find the most colorful bird, and examine animals with bold patterns. Discover the importance of color in nature through games, art, and exploration.

Predators! July 13–17, August 24–28 Osprey, black racer snakes, and giant water bugs! Discover the cunning strategies predators use to survive, and find out how we fit into nature’s predator/prey dynamic. Take a close look at animal skulls to determine the different characteristics of herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores.

Fabulous Fliers July 20–24 Why do birds flock together? How do they fly? And why do they sing? Identify and explore adaptations of the many fabulous fliers at Felix Neck, including the osprey, songbirds, and shorebirds.

Spineless Wonders July 27–31 Investigate the secret world of invertebrates (spineless critters) living at Felix Neck. Search for bugs, slugs, and spiders while learning how they eat, move, hide, and find mates.

Day and Night August 3–7 What happens at Felix Neck when the sun goes down? Bats, owls, muskrat, and other creatures of the night reign while daytime animals (and campers) sleep. Learn how these animals use the dark of night to their advantage.

Ocean in Motion August 10–14 Why does the tide roll in and out? And what’s all the commotion in the ocean? Discover what makes the waters around the Island move, and which animals and plants live beneath the waves by getting wet in our saltwater habitats.

6

Entering grades 2–3$402 members | $477 nonmembers




Adventurers dive deeper

into nature with hiking,

nature experiments, games,

and more. Programs also

include snorkeling and an

overnight campout at the

sanctuary. Price includes a

camp T-shirt, a camp patch,

and a group photo.

*Thursday overnight with 9:00 am pick-up Friday morning (no camp Friday).

Survival Challenge July 6–10, August 10–14 Investigate unique adaptations that help animals and plants survive in Felix Neck’s diverse habitats, including seashore, marsh, pond, forest and field. Test your own survival skills through games, shelter building, and more!

Micro to Macro July 13–17 Nature’s food chain depends on creatures of all sizes and shapes—from microscopic plankton to massive whales. Investigate how these micro- and macro-organisms interact with one another.

Earth Heroes July 20–24, August 3–7 Do you like the outdoors and care about wildlife? Learn to be a hero of the earth: Hike trails without leaving a trace, create art with recycled material, and help with invasive species removal.

Island Explorations July 27–31 Explore the habitats of Felix Neck and Martha’s Vineyard with a close eye. Learn about wildlife that call the Island home and the important role they play in our ecosystem through games, activities, and research.

ADVENTURERSEntering grades 4–5 $416 members | $491 nonmembers

Monday–Thursday* 9:00 am–2:30 pm

7

ECOLOGISTSEntering grades 6–8$446 members | $521 nonmembers

Monday–Thursday* 9:00 am–2:30 pm



Ecologists participate in

inquiry-based projects that

introduce the methods and

techniques scientists use to

study and interpret nature.

Programs include citizen

science research, snorkeling,

kayaking, and an overnight

campout at the sanctuary.

Price includes a camp T-shirt, a

camp patch, and a group photo.

*Thursday overnight with 9:00 am pick-up Friday morning (no camp Friday).

Navigating Natives July 13–17 Humans and wildlife have been living side by side for some time, but never as close together as now. Get to know some common (but often misunderstood) animals, including bees, jellyfish, turtles, snakes, and bats.

Wildlife Rangers July 20–24 Read a map, use a compass, and go on daily treks to learn about wildlife and their trails.

Marine Life Styles July 27–31 Explore the exciting field of marine biology and meet scientists, sea turtle rescuers, and others who make their living studying sea life. Survey coastal waterbirds such as American Oystercatchers, Piping Plovers, and terns on Sengekontacket Pond.

Into the Wild August 3–7 Humans and wildlife have survived on the Island and in the water surrounding Felix Neck for thousands of years. You, too, can learn basic survival skills and techniques, including how to build a primitive shelter, identify wild edibles, and more!

Leaders-In-TrainingAges 14–16 Monday–Friday 8:00 am–4:00 pm

July 6–August 14 $169 members; $244 nonmembers

Our Leaders-In-Training (LIT) program gives teens an opportunity to develop leadership skills and an environmental ethic that will last a lifetime. LITs assist counselors in planning and teaching lessons and can participate for multiple weeks. Please note: an application is required and can be downloaded at massaudubon.org/felixneckcamp.

CAMP STAFF POSITIONS

Love nature and working with kids? Too old for camp, but still want to spend your summer at Felix Neck? We’re looking for you!

Junior Counselors | Ages 16+ Environmental Educators/Counselors | Ages 18+

We hire enthusiastic people who want to enrich the lives of children. Instructors supervise campers’ health and safety; promote positive youth development; teach nature-based activities, games, and crafts; and communicate with parents and other staff. Please note: current CPR/first-aid certifications are required for all positions; lifeguard certification is a plus.

Camp Positions

AVAILABLE

SCHOOL VACATION PROGRAMSKindergarten–Grade 5

February Vacation Programs

February 26–March 1 9:00 am–3:00 pm

$70/day members $80/day nonmembers

Search for animal tracks and signs and learn about special adaptations that allow wildlife to survive the cold winter months. Come for one day or all four!

February 26: Earth Heroes February 27: Survival Challenge February 28: Track-tastic

March 1: Into the Wild

April Vacation Programs

April 20–24 8:30 am–3:00 pm

$300/week members $350/week nonmembers

Spring into nature as we explore different Island habitats, learn about wildlife, grow food, make crafts, sing songs, listen to nature stories, and much more!

Registration is required.

Visit massaudubon.org/felixneck or call 508-627-4850.

A Collaborative Program from the Martha’s Vineyard Environmental Educators Alliance (MVEEA).

8

TO REGISTER FOR CAMPVisit massaudubon.org/felixneckcamp or call 508-627-4850

REGISTRATION CONFIRMATIONA confirmation letter/e-mail containing important documents and information will be sent once your camper’s registration has been processed.

DEPOSITA nonrefundable deposit of $75/camper/session is required to register for camp. The deposit will be applied to your camp tuition and cannot be transferred to another camper, family, or location. If registering after May 15, payment in full is required (unless a payment plan has been established with the Camp Administrator).

REFUND POLICYA full refund, minus a nonrefundable deposit of $75, is provided to camp families who cancel in writing on or before May 15. After May 15 no refund is available. Deposits are not transferable, and refunds are not given for participant dismissal, failure to attend, absence, or sick days. If we must cancel a session, you will receive a full refund.

MEMBERSHIP & DISCOUNTSMass Audubon members at the Family level or above receive a discounted rate. To qualify, your membership must be current through your camper’s last session, and you must be the parent, grandparent, or legal guardian of the camper being enrolled. Membership can be purchased or renewed at the time of registration.

Year-round island residents can take advantage of a $30/half day sessions and $40/full day sessions discount.

PAYMENT PLANS Payment plan options are available. Payments are due on the 15th of each month. Inability to make payments may result in camper dismissal. In such cases, no refunds will be provided. Please contact the Camp Director or Registrar for more information.

IMPORTANT DEADLINESAll camp forms are due by May 15. The balance of your camp tuition is due two weeks prior to the start of your camper’s session. A camper cannot attend camp and his/her spot is not guaranteed until all forms, waivers, and payments are completed (or a payment plan has been established). A fee of $25/camper will be charged for incomplete or late forms.

CAMPER REQUIREMENTS Campers are expected to meaningfully participate in age-appropriate activities, including outdoor exploration and nature study. To ensure a successful camp experience, please discuss any pertinent information regarding your child’s special needs with the Camp Director. We can accommodate on a case-by-case basis in order to establish the best strategy for a great summer camp experience. All campers must follow stated behavior expectations and safety rules. The Camp Director reserves the right to dismiss a camper when, in his/her judgment, the camper’s behavior interferes with the rights of others or the smooth functioning of the group or activity, or violates the camp’s behavior policy. In such cases no refunds will be provided. If you have any questions regarding your child’s ability to participate in our camp program, please contact the Camp Director.

CAMP LICENSE Our camp complies with the regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (105 CMR 430) and is licensed by the Edgartown Board of Health.

ACA ACCREDITATIONWe are proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. Developed exclusively for the camp industry, this nationally recognized program focuses on program quality, health and safety, management, and camp operations.

CAMP POLICY REQUESTSYou may request copies of our background check, healthcare, discipline, bullying, and grievance policies at any time.

SESSION TRANSFERSSessions transfer requests will be honored if there is space available and if a request is made at least two weeks prior to the session start date, after which time transfers are not permitted.

BUDDY REQUESTS One buddy request per camper will be honored when possible. Both campers must be the same age and both must request each other. All buddy requests must be made in writing at least one week prior to the first day of camp. Please indicate on your registration form if you would like your camper to be placed with a friend of the same age.

CARPOOL REQUESTSIf you would like to be added to the carpool list, please check the appropriate box on your registration form and your information will be shared with other interested families.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

10

FINANCIAL AIDFinancial assistance is available to year-round Island

residents based on demonstrated economic need and

available funds. Applications are reviewed on a first come

first serve basis. Please call the Camp Director to request

an application.

9

WHERE TO FIND US100 Felix Neck Drive, Edgartown, MA 02539

MAILING ADDRESS Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary P.O. Box 494 Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

QUESTIONS?Call us at 508-627-4850 Email us at

[email protected]

Mass Audubon’s overnight camp in New Hampshire

• Overnight Camp, ages 8–14

• Wildwood Warblers, ages 7–8

• Teen Adventure Trips, grades 9–12

• Environmental Leadership Program, grades 10–11

• Counselors-in-Training, grade 12

• Family Camp, all ages!

Visit massaudubon.org/wildwood or call 866-627-2267 to learn more and register.

There’s more to explore!

10

Registration opens early January 2020. Early registration is encouraged to secure your preferred dates. Price is per week.

massaudubon.org/felixneckcamp

Felix Neck Wildlife SanctuaryP.O. Box 494 Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

Mass Audubon protects more than 38,000 acres

of land throughout Massachusetts, saving birds and

other wildlife, and making nature accessible to all. As

Massachusetts’ largest nature conservation nonprofit,

we welcome more than a half million visitors a year to

our wildlife sanctuaries and nature centers. Today, Mass

Audubon is a nationally recognized environmental

education leader, offering thousands of camp, school,

and adult programs. With more than 135,000 members

and supporters, we advocate on Beacon Hill and

beyond, and conduct conservation research to preserve

the natural heritage of our beautiful state. We welcome

you to explore a nearby sanctuary, find inspiration, and

get involved. Learn how at massaudubon.org.

Printed on recycled paper

My child loved the marsh, bird watching, being with all the

different ages, and the counselors (A LOT)!

— Camp Parent

fern & feather day camp...seashore, marsh, pond, forest and field. test your own survival skills...

Documents