Children participating in the Junior Refuge Manager Academy study aquatic insects at Green Point Environmental Learning Center, part of Shiawassee NWR on July 11, 2008. The pond study was just one activity during the two-day camp. Fifteen Junior Refuge Managers met the grade and graduated from this year's Academy. Photo by Bonnie Prestin.

 Fifteen 7- to 12-year-olds had things buzzing at the Green Point Environmental Learning Center, part of the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge on July 10 and 11, 2008.  Six hours each day they were participating in the Junior Refuge Manager Academy which focused on insects and pollinators.  Under the guidance of Visitor Services Manager Becky Goche, Park Ranger Tom Horb, and refuge volunteer Emilee Warner, the children did a variety of activities.  Warner, now a sophomore in high school, participated in the first Junior Refuge Manager Academy several years ago!  The Academy participants learned how to identify insects from other "bugs" and made their own insect collectors to capture and identify insects in Green Point's grassland and pond.  They performed several science-type experiments to learn how surface tension helps water striders walk on water, how aerodynamics affects insect flight, and ways that insects use mimicry and camouflage.  Each afternoon they hiked and explored Green Point's woods.  For most participants, hiking was their favorite activity.

Children came from the nearby Boys and Girls Club and as far as 30 miles away to participate in the Academy.  All Junior Refuge Managers were given a certificate of completion, official Junior Refuge Manager badge, and several other handouts at their graduation ceremony.