This is another opportunity to work with youth and one we think will be a lot of fun
For several years (excluding the last two thanks to COVID-19), Hennepin and Anoka County Master Gardeners have been part of the Gopher Adventure Camp experience at the University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus. This year, they have invited us to participate as well, which seems fitting since it is “in our back yard.”
About This Project
Gopher Adventure Camp is for children ages 6-12, many of whom are related to University employees. It includes many types of activities, of which gardening is just one. We offer Jr. Master Gardener lessons, which include time to work in and learn about Goldy’s Garden, an area specifically set aside for the youth. It includes assorted vegetables and pollinator plants.
The camp’s gardening sessions take place on Tuesdays from 9:30 – 12:30, June 14 – August 26 (no camp the week of July 4). There are two areas in which Master Gardeners can help. The first is the teaching part, either as a lead teacher or as a small group leader in the garden following the short lesson. All lessons are already created and materials supplied. The second area where help is needed is in planting and maintaining the gardens in June, and cleaning up and harvesting in September.
Volunteering
Volunteers who are interested should sign up for the designated Ramsey County slots to help with either of the two roles:
Assist the children with that day's lesson in the garden (10am-12pm) OR
Help with garden prep, clean up and harvest (10am-1pm)
Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for multiple dates, especially for the education option to help to become familiar with the routine and the children. However single shifts are also ok. Do NOT sign up for the slots noted as Lead Instructor at this time. (There may be opportunities to assume this responsibility as the summer evolves if you are interested.)
The SignUp Genius page has already been posted for Gopher Adventure Camp, but there are still open slots in both areas. Dress for. the weather as this is an outdoor activity.
For questions, contact Susan Cathey or Ed Shinbach, Youth Education coordinators.
Susan Cathey
Ed Shinbach