Come and learn some basic tree ID skills with Augusta Area District Forester Jared Gregory!

This tree talk focuses on offering participants a basic skills toolbox to help them understand the features that define specific types of trees. Beyond that we will discuss why tree identification is an important skill for everyone. We will see examples of some of the species that are currently common in the Maine landscape and those that we can expect to see more of as winters get shorter and average temperature increases. 

This is designed to be an experience that is open and friendly to everyone! We will be walking across varied terrain for up to one mile so we advise planning accordingly. In the event of steady rain we will cancel/reschedule. 

Young Stewards Program; ages 7-10

Built on prior years of summer camp's at Viles Arboretum, this summer enrichment experience will give children the chance to become scientists for the week. Children will collect samples, use tools like microscopes, learn real-life survey techniques and more. Coupled with summer camp classics like group games, arts and crafts, and time to just explore the woods, this week is a celebration of the great outdoors.

In addition to in-depth exploration, children will also have the opportunity to tackle their own service project as environmental stewards, helping to take care of and celebrate the rich Arboretum resource.

Environmental Leaders Program; Ages 11-14

This program will provide new, age-appropriate opportunities for campers that have aged out of our original Young Steward Camp by taking the same fun, exploration-based model and adding new activities and challenges for the older age group. Members of the Environmental Leaders program will have opportunities to participate in new interest-focused activities that allow them to develop their skill sets and interests. Each week we will provide new opportunities to meet with professionals in the environmental field to learn about their roles as environmental leaders in our communities. Environmental Leaders will act as role models for members of our Young Stewards Program by leading them in real-world community service projects at the Arboretum. This program provides opportunities for youth to develop the skills they need to to become the future Environmental Leaders of our communities and beyond.

The price of camp is calculated using a sliding scale income-based model. What you pay for camp is adjusted based on household income. This price is calculated in the cart when you answer the "what is your household income" question. The price breakdown is as follows:

• Less than $10,000 - Contact us!

• $10,001 - $30,000 - $107

• $30,001 - $60,000 - $155

• $60,001 - $90,000 - $225

• $90,001 - $120,000 - $273

• $120,001  and above - $316

We are excited to announce we are expanding the age range for camp this summer! We will be accepting campers from 7-14. During most of the day campers will be split into seperate groups of 7-10 and 11-14. 

Join Deborah Perkins of First Light Wildlife Habitats to learn more about the fascinating lives of our native bee species and how you can help save them. This exciting walk and workshop will cover the following topics:

• The ecology & behavior of our fascinating native bees
• Habitat needs and environmental stressors
• How you can create a high value habitat in your own dooryard, farm, field, or forestland How to boost biodiversity and pollination services
• How to experience what Deb calls “Zen and the Art of Bee Observation”

The first portion of this class will feature a in-person presentation in our Viles Room followed by an interractive walk on the Arboretum grounds.