Published: July 03, 2008 10:54 pm         

Camp Mack completes new boardwalk

MILFORD, Ind. — Camp Mack staff and volunteers are putting the finishing touches on a 280-foot boardwalk, another step in the enhancement of Camp Mack’s nature program.

The boardwalk gives campers and guests exposure to three water-focused eco-systems: wetlands prairie, a recharge area for Lake Waubee and a flowing stream.

A “T” siding with benches is being built so visitors may rest and enjoy the sights and sounds, or sit to hear information about this area.

This is the first section of boardwalk that, if funds become available, will have a bridge over the stream and connect to one of camp’s main trails.

The Waubee Lake vegetation management plan update of 2006 states: “One of the most beneficial plant areas in Waubee Lake is the undeveloped wetland and forest area along the south shore of the lake. Wetland areas provide excellent water filtration and shoreline stability. This area should be protected to help preserve good water quality in Waubee Lake.”

This is the area that the camp’s boardwalk traverses and presents an area for observation and study.

Builders of the boardwalk were careful to protect the wetlands area. In constructing the walk, concrete and gravel were used to fabricate foundation pieces for the walk’s floating supports.

The boardwalk has been made possible by a $6,500 grant from the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, donor support and volunteer labor.

The boardwalk is a significant element in camp’s emphasis on enhancing its nature program.

In 2006, camp workers recycled a cabin, moving it to a low-traffic area to use as a nature cabin. The cabin was remodeled and a deck was added for an outside instructional area.

Now the cabin nearly overflows with small live animals and reptiles, mounted animals, skulls, skins, tree slices, study equipment and other items. A $1,000 grant from the H.C. Gemmer Family Christian Foundation funded the purchase of some of the equipment for the nature cabin.

On May 14, 2007, a hybrid power system consisting of a wind generator (windmill) and solar panel began to light and power the nature center as its only source of electricity. Electricity is stored in large batteries for use when needed.

A $9,500 grant from the Indiana Office of Energy and Defense Development as well as a $1,000 grant from the Outdoor Ministry Association of the Church of the Brethren helped to make this hybrid power system a reality.

Camp Mack staffers work to recycle wherever possible and make available containers for guests to recycle a variety of items. They also work on composting, creating worm beds, purchasing recycled paper and have had an energy audit.

This summer’s camp theme is “Handle With Care.”





For more information

— Camp Mack is located on Lake Waubee at 1113 E. Camp Mack Road, Milford. For information about Camp Mack’s programs, call the Camp Mack office at 658-4831 or check out Camp Mack’s Web site at www.campmack.org.