CHEC offers summer camp for area students

The Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center, or CHEC, has received a grant from the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, allowing CHEC to team up with a local organization dedicated to supporting the growth and development of youth within the Charlotte community.

As a result, CHEC will be offering environmentally focused summer camp programs to 30 students from New Operation Cooper Street at no cost.

The camp will be designed to promote academic achievement and the health and well being of local watershed and related ecosystems.

Each camper will be given the opportunity to participate in scientifically based experimentation, marine-themed crafts, wading trips and other hands-on activities.

These lessons are designed to give students a better understanding of natural resources and the methods they can use to preserve local marine ecosystems.

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center is also launching its inaugural six-week summer camp season, being offered at $100 per week for full-day environmental education. CHEC is able offer this program at half the original rate, thanks to the donation of time by a certified Charlotte County schoolteacher.

These programs will take place in both Punta Gorda and Englewood locations. To learn more, call 575-5435 or visit checflorida.org.