For scientifically-curious campers entering grades 10-12

If you are interested in exploring what it is like to be a field scientist, this is the camp for you. Conduct fish surveys alongside natural resource professionals. Paddle from lake to lake researching aquatic habitats of the Boundary Waters (BWCAW). Gain confidence as you present your findings to fellow campers. Leave Wolf Ridge with a better understanding of Minnesota’s waterways and how people can work together to manage and sustain them.  Earn college or high school credit.

Freshwater Credit Academy Activities

Explore what it is like to be a field scientist

Conduct fish surveys alongside natural resource professionals. Paddle from lake to lake researching aquatic habitats of the Boundary Waters (BWCAW). Gain confidence as you present your findings to fellow campers. Leave Wolf Ridge with a better understanding of Minnesota’s waterways and how people can work together to manage and sustain them.  Earn college or high school credit.

• Classes and activities focus on freshwater ecology
• Explore the geology of Lake Superior and the North Shore
• Step back in time and discover the cultural history of the area
• Study the health of an aquatic ecosystem by performing physical, chemical, and biological tests with teachers and fisheries experts.
• Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness trip
• Create and present your own scientific research project

What are the curriculum, methods, and materials?

Guided by the Minnesota Graduation Standards, the United States Department of Education Academic Standards, and the National Science Education Standards, Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center has developed an experiential, hands-on, inquiry-based field research learning program. Classes are small, typically 6-12 students, so the instruction can be customized to fit the needs of an individual student. Curriculum and materials have been carefully developed to meet the needs of the program. Materials including, textbooks, journal articles, books, magazines, audio, video, websites, brochures, newspapers, and first-hand experiences are used. Wolf Ridge’s certified science teachers facilitate hands-on, direct experiences in nature and promote the values of personal growth, conservation, stewardship, social understanding, respect, and cooperation.

What does the participant receive?

An official letter grade, a percentage grade, a written evaluation of the student’s proficiency, and a course framework syllabus are sent with the students to give to their school. Students themselves have a portfolio to document their abilities and progress.

What do high schools do with the credit?

Most schools accept the transfer of full credit for your work done at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center. Check with your school to see their policies and procedures regarding the transfer of credit.  Wolf Ridge staff can help you make the proper contacts and will give you the information the school will need.

How to get college credit

All participants who would like to receive college credit need to complete and pass the ACCUPLACER test. The ACCUPLACER test is a suite of tests that determines your knowledge in math, reading, and writing as you prepare to enroll in college-level courses. This test is offered multiple locations around the country. For more information, please contact Wolf Ridge at 218-353-7414.

Freshwater Credit Academy Dates

July

July 4-24, 2021

Cost

$2100

A variety of discounts and scholarships are available–view details on the camp Details and FAQs page.

We accept credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express).
The balance of your camp fee is due by June 1^st.