This opportunity allows 15 current 8th grade students and up to five ELO high school students the opportunity to take two school days this Spring to participate in a two part whitewater clinic, covering 10 miles on the beautiful St. Croix River in Vanceboro, Maine.  Students will practice practical river navigation skills as well as learn about the current role of the St. Croix River in local and international affairs.   Students will end the day by participating in a tour of the Wild Field Farm in Vanceboro, Maine, owned by Christopher Hinshaw and Alaine Peaslee-Hinshaw, long time educator and administrator and current Executive Director of the Greater East Grand Economic Council.  The farm focuses on homesteading and education based on stewardship and sustainability.  Between the two visits, students will tour an orchard, multiple raised bed gardens, and an underground greenhouse, with a focus on food sustainability and nutrition. On a second trip, students will tour an off-the-grid cabin and learn about solar electric power and key components of living sustainably.    Students who participate in both trips may be offered the opportunity to serve as an ELO student on the upcoming Big Eddy camping trip. Dates and how to signup coming soon!

Itinerary

8:00:  Leave East Grand School

9:30-10:45—River Safety and Paddle Stroke on the shore of St. Croix River.  Learn about the history of the St. Croix River from current Outdoor Education student.

10:45-1:45—Paddling and Shoreside Lunch

1:45-2:30—Finish river travel and arrive at Raymond’s camp, pack up canoes and equipment, and travel to Wild Field Farm.  

2:30-4:30— Wild Field Farm.  

Tour of underground greenhouse, gardens, and orchard.  

Focused Learning Objective:  food sustainability

5:45—Millyard for supper

6:30—Dismissed

Note: Trip # 2 will involved Paddling from Raymond’s Camp to Little Falls with shoreside lunch along the way. A 2nd visit to Wild Field Farm will include a tour of off-the-grid cabin with a focus on solar electric power