News from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

For more information contact: Tom Panzone, 718-482-4953

Media Advisory

Youth Return to NYC after Life-changing Week in the Catskills

ALBANY, NY (08/15/2008; 1203)(readMedia)-- Fifteen New York City youngsters who participated in the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's (NYSDEC) Camps Diversity Program are returning home on Saturday, Aug. 16, after a week of fun, adventure, and learning at Camp DeBruce in the Catskill Mountains. Media are invited to attend the bus's scheduled arrival between12:30 and1:30 p.m. at the corner of 60th Street and 5th Avenue on the southeastern edge of Central Park. Campers will be available to discuss their experiences with reporters.

Of the four summer environmental camps run by NYSDEC, Camp DeBruce, located in the southern Catskills, is the closest to New York City. The camp sits on 300 acres of land adjoining the Catskills Forest Preserve and caters to campers ages12 to14. Natural forests, trout streams, the Catskill Fish Hatchery and Mongaup Pond State Public Campsite are within walking distance of Camp DeBruce.

The campers spent the week learning about group dynamics, forest ecology, field ecology, pond ecology, and environmental ethics. They also participated in activities introducing them to outdoor pursuits such as fly fishing, canoe trips, hiking to a nearby waterfall, exploring a bog and spending the afternoon on a mountain peak.

What: DEC Camps Diversity Youth returning to NYC.

Where: Corner of 60th Street and 5th Avenue (Southeast corner of Central Park)

When: 12:30 to1:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008

Visuals: Children returning to their families with Central Park as the backdrop.