The South Carolina Wildlife Federation is proud to be one of the sponsors of Camp Wildwood, an outdoor environmental camp that is a fun-filled week during which high school students can experience the many aspects of their natural environment. This year’s Camp was held June 15th through the 21st.
These pictures from this year’s camp show how Camp Wildwood helps the campers to discover that we are part of nature and everything we do in some way affects the natural balance. At Camp Wildwood, you acquire the knowledge and appreciation needed for the protection and wise use of our natural resources.
In addition to the South Carolina Wildlife Federation, Camp Wildwood is also sponsored by the Garden Club of South Carolina, Inc., the Harry Hampton Memorial Wildlife Fund, South Carolina State Parks, and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Camp Wildwood is held annually in June at Kings Mountain State Park and you can find out more information about it by visiting https://www.campwildwoodsc.com/.
The dark skies allow the migrating birds to avoid predators, take advantage of calmer air, and utilize the moon and stars for navigation. However, as birds pass over communities and cities on their way, they can become disoriented by bright artificial lights and skyglow. Some birds become casualties of nighttime collisions with windows and walls. Others circle in confusion until dawn, when they land exhausted and are subject to other urban threats. This issue impacts hundreds of species, including priority species such as the wood thrush and the seaside sparrow.
“A relative newcomer to the art world, much of my portfolio has been built around animals in and around our beautiful state. And, as a South Carolina native whose family has deep, multi-generational hunting traditions, preservation, conservation, and environmental stewardism has always been at the forefront of the lessons and culture we’ve been fortunate to have had passed down. I was excited by this year’s species selections – several of which I’d not realized were at risk – and had such fun bringing them to life! Wildlife artists in our state are privileged to have such a wide array of subjects from which to find inspiration, and being given the opportunity to showcase our craft while bringing awareness is a true honor. I’m both delighted and humbled to have been selected as this year’s winner – many thanks to South Carolina Wildlife Federation for including me in such an elegant and meaningful platform.” – Heather Deacon
