Building on a unique program geared toward helping young people develop a deeper appreciation of the natural world, the Department of Parks and Recreation, with support from Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe, kicks off a second year of the innovative Eco-Ranger Camp on Monday, July 15.

Dedicated to leadership development, environmental awareness and human relations training for 40 participants ages 13-18, this year’s Teen Eco-Ranger Leadership Academy is being expanded from one day to a full week prior to the start of the day camp.

Leadership Academy activities will include Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training; a tour of Rio Hondo College that will emphasize higher education and green jobs; a visit to a meeting of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors; and a trail improvement service project at Castaic Lake. Once the one-week academy is complete, the participants will work with the younger children enrolled in the Eco-Ranger day camp, which begins July 22.

“Due to the success of last year’s program, I am delighted that we are expanding the Eco-Ranger Camp this year,” said Supervisor Knabe. “These types of experiences give young people an opportunity to learn about nature and the environment in a hands-on and fun way. Hopefully, it will also expand their minds as they consider careers for their future and prepare themselves for the jobs of tomorrow.”

The day camp is aimed at more than 200 youth, ages 6-12, from four County parks – Sorensen, Adventure, Amigo and Amelia Mayberry – serving unincorporated South and West Whittier. Its programming places a strong emphasis on principles of conservation, and reinforcing the unique role that young people play in protecting the environment. Topics covered include water conservation; recycling; alternative energy awareness; preservation of natural resources; and lessons on local ecosystems, plant and animal habitats.

Among the activities in the week-long series of environmental awareness workshops and field trips, beginning July 22: a trip to Dockweiler State Beach, where campers will be able to swim in the ocean and take part in a beach cleanup service project with representatives from Heal the Bay; a visit to the Puente Hills Landfill, where campers will learn about recycling and decorate their own recycling bins; and a week-ending, overnight trip to Castaic Lake State Recreation Area – where participants will see animal demonstrations, go on nature hikes and experience camping, many for the very first time.

“For young people growing up in urban areas of Los Angeles County, our parks play a vital role in helping them establish a connection to nature and the outdoors,” said Department of Parks and Recreation Director Russ Guiney. “We are thrilled to partner again with Supervisor Knabe and others whose generosity of time and resources has helped make the Eco-Ranger Camp such a success.”