Summer Camp Recap

Coastal Kingdoms focused on marine biology and ecology and highlighted the highly complex balance of coastal habitats all around the Outer Banks. Campers learned about plankton and the intricacy of food webs; listened as local scientists and ecosystem experts shared of their own experiences and careers; enjoyed time in the Croatan Sound; and explored Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge’s paddling loop and wildlife trail.

Legends of the Atlantic was the camp for the curious explorer. Campers in this session started off the week by learning “the basics”- what it means to be a maritime archeologist on land and in the water; boat building history in northeastern North Carolina; causes of shipwrecks and why they are so important to preserve. In the process, campers built their own model boats to race, tried on dive gear, mapped a one-tenth scale wreck on land, and even took a video call from a NOAA’s Monitor National Marine Sanctuary maritime archaeologist.

The Oriental, the Metropolis, or the USS Huron? Which ship is it? Campers used the skills of maritime archeologists to gather clues and determine which Outer Banks wreck was this one-tenth-scale, 2D model.

For those who were more artistically inclined, Shapes in Science proved to be so fun and engaging, allowing campers to experience coastal and marine science in a new way. Each morning, campers learned about an ongoing science-related effort happening on campus. Then, in the afternoon, the campers completed an art project that corresponded to the morning’s featured topic. They sculpted waves, traversed local ecosystems to find the perfect nature photo-op, identified and pressed plants for a mosaic, created nature-inspired choreography, and more! After a full week of art and science, the campers ended their week by hosting a gallery for their friends, family, and CSI faculty and staff.

Last but certainly not least, Sustainable Seas was a big hit for those interested in both sustainable livelihoods at the coast and discovering what lies beneath the sea surface. Each day began with the exploration of a basic science concept or research technique followed by the introduction of an advanced technology that makes a scientific job easier and often more fascinating. This session was especially designed with budding coastal engineers in mind, and it featured activities such as collecting data for monitoring shorelines, modeling electric micro-grids, and designing and testing wind turbines and wave energy converters.

It’s not all just fun and games. These Snap Circuit toy kits proved to be an incredibly useful aid while learning about power grid systems and the advantages of microgrids.

All summer and even after camp ended, reviews of the season were positive. As one grandparent wrote, “[The girls] are still talking about CSI camp! They had an amazing experience and learned a variety of skills while having fun…. They are already asking me about next year.”

As for Summer 2023, the planning of themes and dates has only just begun, but after a few weeks’ rest, the CSI Education and Outreach team is already excited to dig in again. Those interested in attending camp next year should stay tuned for details, but in the meantime, mark their calendars for the opening of registration on March 1, 2023.