Adventure Salmon Camp
2011 Overnight Camp
Session 2: August
Day 4 – Saturday, August 13th Session 1: July
After the eagle flew over, it seemed like a good time to get up and out of the sleeping bag. The night on the beach was pleasant. The Great blue heron spent a good part of the daybreak in the gentle surf. Hunting seemed slow, so it flew on after some time. There were some early risers from the tents. Mendy offered up early coffee and cocao and Greg took some time to soak up the morning before the others wandered to the fire. Riley was up early to tend to the fire so we had something to warm our bones and shake off the morning chills. With a bit of surprise, the rest of the camp was up and around the fire by 7:00am… it’s amazing when there is no clock and just the bright of the sky to stir the inner spirit. The early morning provided the chance to explore the beach, the shoreline, and the connection with the forest. We were fortunate to have a Western Tanager entertain us for a bit with its feeding acrobatics along the edge of the forest. By midday we had ventured to the pools, riffles and logjams of the Dewatto River. Our brief collection included an array of stream bugs, many coho parr, a nice cutthroat trout, and some egg masses of unknown origin. There were some shivering campers at the end of it all, but it was hardly noticed because of the thrill of the discoveries. Someone even said they’re starting to feel like little salmon. That’s too cool. DanAdventure Salmon Camp
Closing Ceremony quotes:
I think Raven has the all time record for journal entries.. Renee
We went to Potlatch State Park. We played estuary games. It was fun but of course I lost because I'm small. We learned about what salmon go through. We had to not get eaten by Dan or a shark or a whale. Raven
We stayed at a really nice campground at Dosewallips. We could see the mountains. We went on a hike and it was gorgeous. The Salmon Mafia game is kinda like the werewolf game. You have Hood Canal salmon and Atlantic salmon. They are all trying to get to the feeding grounds in Alaska. Only the Hood Canal salmon know where the feeding grounds are located. They have the location imprinted in their brain. The point is to beat the bad salmon. It was really fun and entertaining. Katie
At the last campsite there was a gigantic handcarving of a salmon. It was carved from Cedar. It was really cool. Logan
I have officially written in every single page of my journal. A lot of it is doodling but it is all full. Raven
I wore the necklace because I was helpful around the camp. Logan
I don't know why I got this one (the necklace). Jeremiah
He reminds the staff of a coyote. He is kind of a trickster but also shows a lot of wisdom. Dan
I got the necklace because I was not feeling well so I kind of seperated from the group during the Elk and Wolf game. Dan came over and helped me learn how to calm my mind and be one with nature. It helped me a lot and I am glad to have done that. Nancy
I got an award for journaling. Raven
They gave me the necklace for leadership. When it was our clan's turn to cook dinner I kind of took charge and I did the same with breakfast. John
Salmon eat bugs. Salmon happy. Bats eat bugs. Bats happy. Raven
Marine nutrients from carcasses are important in the salmon cycle. They provide food for stream bugs. Bats benefit indirectly from this process. Dan
We were running as fast as we could from the wolves. We were doing pretty good until we got seperated and then we got devoured. At the end of the game the elk got a bit of revenge. Georgette
Describing the Blue Hole - It is mesmerizing. It is a section where the Hamma goes off and it is really deep and freezing cold. The rock ledge is really high to jump off. Jumping in is really freezing and the cold is nothing like you've ever felt before. It was special to be the first one to jump off the ledge. It represents how salmon have to leap upstream. The hike to get there was pretty hard, lots of rocks and stickers. At the end of the destination the reward was getting to the Blue Hole. John
Renee talked about the importance of the Skokomish Estuary and the huge efforts that have gone into its restoration and how important this project is for slamon. At this location, each camper was given a critter which they had to research and figure out how it was connected to salmon.
On Day Two, we woke up really early. We went over by the river. We saw a herd of elk. It was really cool to see them feeding. They were crossing the river to get to more food. They will eat all the greens which helps give enough room for trees that provide shelter for the salmon. Really cool. Ben
Raven took us to the Dose estuary . We had to test the water and it turned out is was good/cold for the salmon. We checked for water quality and temperature. Jeremiah
We had some fish chasers didn't we? Dan
My favorite part of the Bat talk was the advertising. We all got in the back of the truck and shouted "Bat Talk at Dusk!" We didn't realize that Dan was giving the talk. We got a couple of dirty looks from people. I learned that bats play a huge role in the control of insects and without them we would all be covered in bugs! Nancy
Safe journeys home. Dan
Friday, August 12, 2011
Day 3 of Adventure Salmon Camp
It looks like the campers have had another great day out in the watershed of the Hood Canal in the Salish Sea. Exploring the Hama Hama River south of Dosewallips took up most of the day. Pictures above include preparation for the Elk and Wolf game and learning from college interns about stream surveying and benthic macroinvertebrates (stream bugs) and how all this fits into the salmon life cycle. More pictures will come and comments too. I heard the Elk and Wolf game was a lot of fun today and took up most of the afternoon. See entries in July about details of the game. It is so much fun and no one really ever wants to stop playing once they become an elk or a wolf. It is role playing at its best. I am sure clans took the hike up the Hamma to the wondrous blue hole for the annual leap off the rather high ledge which is always thrilling and very cold! See you tomorrow campers, have too much fun.. Kim
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Day 2 of Adventure Salmon Camp
We anticipated a sunrise morning in which we planned to get up with enough time to walk from our campsite (deep in the wooded area) to an overlook across the river delta to watch the sunrise. The timing of all that sounded a little bit daunting to several of the campers, but they were all willing to give it a try. I was nestled in from the evening along the river bank as the sky was becoming more light. As the morning softened from the cool of the night to the cool of the morning sky, It became apparent that the clouds were going to try and foil our morning of the Dawn Chorus, I watched the sky brighten a bit more and checked my watch. It was 5:50am. It was pleasantly quiet as I gazed up at the low clouds clinging to the mountain. I sat up in my sleeping bag and focused my attention across the river. It was another peaceful morning on the edges of the Dosewallips River. As the thought was lingering in my mind, four half-dressed boys went flying past my sleeping bag on their way down the bank of the river. The gazelle-like legs of the leader, Jeremiah, came to an abrupt stop and the four of them nearly stumbled over each other. “There are moose crossing the river!!” exclaimed Jeremiah to me as he realized they had just whisked past with their focus on the prize crossing the river. Haven’t not yet seen their vision, I called back, “Are you sure they’re moose?”. “Something like that” he said. Sure enough, there was a procession of elk (dang they weren’t moose) crossing the river. Some had already made it across, some were part way across, and others were approaching the far stream bank to take their turn. Wow. From their actions, it looked like they were taking a path up the near river bank and towards us. I tried feebly to shush the four of them, but their excitement was more than it was worth to reign it back. It looked a bit like a train wreck about to happen. Campers approaching elk, and elk approaching campers. About the same point of recognizing the moment, they both paused. The stalemate was one. Dan
Today we saw some elk - they where relly cool! Logan
Woke up super early to the guys screaming and shouting. Followed Dan through a trail and saw some elk. It was an awesome experience! Can’t wait for the next adventure. Nancy
Last night we played a game called “salmon mafia” and it was like a huge game of clue, it was actually really fun, and everyone is still talking about it today. Also, this morning I woke up and we had hot coco and in the middle of drinking I looked up and saw several elk crossing the river, there were 10 in all. I especially loved seeing them because I have never really seen elk in person, especially in nature, I hear we are going to a waterfall later today at “rocky brook” I am very exited because I remember going thre a few years ago and it’s really beautiful! And a nice memorable experience Brandon Beauprey.
Good morning… it was so cool to see the elk this morning. They were bigger than I expected. Hot chocolate doesn’t seem to be keeping me warm this morning. I slept with Katie and Laural last night. That was my first time sleeping in a tent outside. I thought about my little sister this morning when I woke up. It was cold.. and weird in the tent this morning. I woke up and thought I was in my room.. it was weird. Then I opened my eyes and saw Katie standing in the tent and I knew it wasn’t my room. The tent was cool because it was big enough for all three of us and our stuff. Dictated by Raven
I woke up at 4:30 this morning and went back to bed.. and then woke up every half hour after that.. Around 6:00 Logan came to the tent and told us there were moose crossing the stream. So I had to go check it out. I took lots of pictures of the elk this morning. The cocoa was calling my name so had to go back and get some. Then there was a call for more moose and we all went running again. .. took more pictures. Now I’m working on a special carving. Dictated by Katie
I spent a restless night.. not sure why, but got up for some reason and went outside the tent. I looked over my shoulder and noticed some elk at the opposite side of the river from the campsite. Then me and Logan ran towards the water with John and Ben. We watched for a long time. We saw Dan near the edge of the river. He asked that we go get everybody up to come watch the moose.. or elk or whatever. After a while, we came back to fill up our water bottles and waited for the cocoa. The elk turned back towards the edge of camp, so we ran down and watched them cross back to other side. Dictated by Jeremiah
Logan “you sound like my mom”. Raven “I am your mom”.
Today started amazing. After a hard night of getting use to sleeping in a tent, I was really tired. Jeremiah quickly rushed us to see some elk, or deer (they wouldn’t make up their minds). The sight of the huge elks crossing the river awoke me into a heavenly sight that will so far be the highlight of my trip. Anyway, it is day two and as a hope to avoid a re-run from last year, I am being very careful. Last year at camp I broke my collar bone on day two. So I am watching my back to keep all of my bones intact. Till tomorrow, bye. John Kraus
This morning when we woke up, there were some elk crossing the river. We watched them for a while. Laurel Glatzmayer
Katie says to let you know that she is closer to finishing her boat carving.
We learned a little bit about tracking animals, it was really interesting, we fallowed the elk that we saw backwards and found an area they go to often. Now we are about to have lunch, ladies first haha witch is a good think to practice as well, and then after we are a going up to the waterfall and going swimming it’s going to be a lot of fun, I just hope that I don’t get cut this time. Brandon Beauprey
“I think I’m going to eat the crust… because of the zero food waste challenge. “ Georgette
This year has started out pretty great (this is an understatement because I can’t think of a more extreme word to describe the experiences I’m having). Right now, we are awaiting some slow pokes that are doing something or rather and after that WE GET TO GO TO A WATERFALL! Yes, a waterfall. I am psyched, to say the least. The counselors/leaders are very accommodating to every camper’s needs , which makes camp even more exciting. I’m really learning to NOT waste my food, because of the zero food waste challenge. (As you may have seen above this entry Dan quoting me, making the decision of eating my crust. Blech, crust!) my fellow campers are now debating on whether to punch a baby when they are angry or to shoot a duck. Personally, I’d go for the duck until we meet again. Georgette
2011 Overnight Camp
Session 1: July
Saturday, July 23rd
Day 4 -
Farm awakening
Shadows of alpaca heads moving on the tent wall
Their curious, humming, droning voices
They are wondering…
What is this tent?
Why is it next to our pasture fence?
Crows cawing to each other
Robin song
Bird calls all around
Attempting to sneak out of the tent…
Tent zippers are so loud…
Caught…… little girls eyes open wide…. Kim
I love this camp!!! Ben
Our collective journey memories….
I enjoyed salmon camp a lot when I was a kid and so I thought I should come along this time and help kids have fun too… Katie
I just really enjoyed salmon camp. It was really fun going kayaking and hanging out in the woods. It was a really great experience even when I fell….. I had a really great time.
Dan told us how you can figure out what animal has passed by reading its
tracks and determining its gait… Ben
Ben got the prize for the most bee stings… (Two or three)
I had fun making the fire even though I had to wake up early… Riley
Riley was our fire keeper, he kept us warm. Dan
Do you still have the lighter, Riley? Ben
No, but I did keep it for the entire elk and wolf game. Riley
Tree sap worked well as a fire starter. Riley
I enjoyed camp.
This is my first year.
I had fun kayaking.
I wore the necklace for asking the most questions.
I survived as an elk.
We had to go through bushes.
Renee died cause she went out there.
She risked her life. Marissa
We made up a game today and played it.
I did sleep a lot.
I wore the necklace for being theatrical.
I was a wolf. Emilie
Soooo, it was fun catching lots of little fish. Me and Dan caught a trout this long….
When my hand was underwater the fish would just stay there.
I probably caught twenty little fish at the most, they were babies.
I was an elk and then I got killed and eaten.
They turned me into a wolf. Tiff
I had a great time playing elks & wolves.
I was one of the survivors.
I just had a great time.
It was a great experience.
I want to do it over and over again.
I wore the necklace for being a great teacher and sharing my nature knowledge. Allie
I had a great time.
I wore the necklace because I was good at a sit spot.
I was an elk and I changed into a wolf. Greg
All I have to say is Dan left two of his things… So, stay here, so you can see Dan dance for his things… Tiff
We are going to do this right now? Dan
Now you have to peck at the ground. You gotta try Dan. Tiff
Dan danced, he pecked, he looked just like a chicken….
Is that worth two things? Dan
He gets his precious hat back… Tiff
Clapping by all
We shared our journey… thank you for that… Safe journeys on your way back home… Dan
Day 4 - July 23, 2011We are leaving of our own accord and retaining our dignity. Ben
Farm awakening
Shadows of alpaca heads moving on the tent wall
Their curious, humming, droning voices
They are wondering…
What is this tent?
Why is it next to our pasture fence?
Crows cawing to each other
Robin song
Bird calls all around
Attempting to sneak out of the tent…
Tent zippers are so loud…
Caught…… little girls eyes open wide…. Kim
I love this camp!!! Ben
Our collective journey memories….
I enjoyed salmon camp a lot when I was a kid and so I thought I should come along this time and help kids have fun too… Katie
I just really enjoyed salmon camp. It was really fun going kayaking and hanging out in the woods. It was a really great experience even when I fell….. I had a really great time.
Dan told us how you can figure out what animal has passed by reading its
tracks and determining its gait… Ben
Ben got the prize for the most bee stings… (Two or three)
I had fun making the fire even though I had to wake up early… Riley
Riley was our fire keeper, he kept us warm. Dan
Do you still have the lighter, Riley? Ben
No, but I did keep it for the entire elk and wolf game. Riley
Tree sap worked well as a fire starter. Riley
I enjoyed camp.
This is my first year.
I had fun kayaking.
I wore the necklace for asking the most questions.
I survived as an elk.
We had to go through bushes.
Renee died cause she went out there.
She risked her life. Marissa
We made up a game today and played it.
I did sleep a lot.
I wore the necklace for being theatrical.
I was a wolf. Emilie
Soooo, it was fun catching lots of little fish. Me and Dan caught a trout this long….
When my hand was underwater the fish would just stay there.
I probably caught twenty little fish at the most, they were babies.
I was an elk and then I got killed and eaten.
They turned me into a wolf. Tiff
I had a great time playing elks & wolves.
I was one of the survivors.
I just had a great time.
It was a great experience.
I want to do it over and over again.
I wore the necklace for being a great teacher and sharing my nature knowledge. Allie
I had a great time.
I wore the necklace because I was good at a sit spot.
I was an elk and I changed into a wolf. Greg
All I have to say is Dan left two of his things… So, stay here, so you can see Dan dance for his things… Tiff
We are going to do this right now? Dan
Now you have to peck at the ground. You gotta try Dan. Tiff
Dan danced, he pecked, he looked just like a chicken….
Is that worth two things? Dan
He gets his precious hat back… Tiff
Clapping by all
We shared our journey… thank you for that… Safe journeys on your way back home… Dan
Friday, July 22, 2011Day 3 - Friday, July 22, 2011
It’s Friday morning and campers are still asleep in their tents. We’ll give them a little more time to recharge before the day begins. We look forward to kayaking, exploring phytoplankton and the much awaited Elk & Wolf game! More to come…
Riley found some fire starter oozing from the bark of a tree. Another nice fire...
Greg has managed to only find one shoe, but it hasn’t kept him from the morning fire. Too fun...
Sunny skies call us and we’ve had no rain!!
It is time to pack up camp and journey south to Shore Acres and travel up and down the windy Burma Road for a day of kayaking and new discoveries…
We arrived around noon, had circle time and enjoyed a leisurely lunch on the shores of Tahuya next to Musqueti Point at Capt. James’ place with a beautiful view of the Olympics Mountains.
We kayaked south to Rendsland Creek to observe and talk about the estuarine habitat and noticed marine creatures around pilings past Musqueti Point. We had clear, cool waters with a gentle breeze all along the way. Some of us floundered just a bit on a small spit in front of the Tumby place. No worries, the water was quite shallow at this spot and some just got out and guided their kayaks to deeper water. Emilie diligently used the pump to remove water from her kayak. Kids explored and paddled about with each other. Renee had a cluster of kayaks around her at all times with kayakers coming and going, lingering, visiting, practicing quiet, giggling and departing. Ben and Riley scouted for us and came back and forth as they explored. Dan and Greg followed behind at times spending more time observing along the way. Tommy mentored Marissa in kayaking skills. Allie, Tiffany, Marissa and Greg were great first time kayakers! Mendy, Michelle and Kim followed behind in a very leaky rowboat… Michelle used her eagle eyes on us all. Kim took some photos while Mendy captained the rowboat. Mendy is an iron woman with her awesome rowing skills!!! A bald eagle flew overhead and seemed to soar among us for a moment…
Our research boat the Tiderunner was nearby keeping an eye on us while conducting some phytoplankton net pulls for us. Thank you, Sean and Annie. Our Stream team Interns, Sam, Ariel, Megan and Katrina remained at Shore Acres baking several dozen yummy chocolate chip oatmeal cookies for us and preparing for the long awaited elk and wolf game….
This game is always anticipated every year. It is a predator/prey game where one must attempt to mimic either a wolf or an elk… hunt or be hunted… be quiet, hunker down, listen, creep through brush and bramble, observe, smell, be still, use all your senses, heighten your awareness, think like an elk or a wolf….
We, the Elk people climbed quietly in a group up a high bank following well used animal trails. We stopped, listened, gazed and kept low with stately sentinel trees of the forest looking down among us amidst a vast ferny glade.
The Wolf people were nowhere in sight. We heard them in the distance. We were fearful. We were quiet. We were scared…
We kept moving, listening, smelling, looking… always aware… knowing WE ARE HUNTED…
We travelled upland; we walked on forest land used by humans we do not fear.
Time goes by, some of us die. The Wolf people howl after each kill. We dying Elk people are reborn as wolves to hunt the remaining elk…
We are hot, WE ARE HUNTED; but we remaining Elk people cannot give up. The Wolf people are tireless; they pick us off one by one, howling in delight at each new kill.
Time still goes on, where are the last three elk??? The Elk people are deep in the forest and nowhere to be found.
The wolves are fat and full and lazy. Wait, OH MY! All the Wolf people are caught by MAN…
They are put into a truck, radio collared, hydrated by wildlife biologists and released so that their movements can be tracked…..
It is getting late, where are those last three elk?
They will not give up!!!
Come out!
You won!
Well done!
Marissa Elk, Allie Elk and Katie Elk….
A fun time was had by all. It is hard to stop playing the Elk/Wolf game….
We amble back to the shore, while gathering soot trays left out the night before. We gaze upon these trays surmising whatever might have left their prints upon them and eaten the bait. We see the bare shadow of a footprint on one… what could it be? A fox, a squirrel? We see slug slime on two others… hungry slugs… and light feathery, barely there prints… maybe a bug or a fairy?
We pack up and head back to the Farm at the Water’s Edge
after a long, fun-filled day at Shore Acres in Tahuya.
Quotes from the evening campfire:
FROM A WOLF: My favorite part of the day was spending time with you fine young men and women; you are our future and also our food… Ariel Coyote
My favorite part was running around with Marissa and Allie and hiding in the woods. Katie
Sam has got two pretty embarrassing moments… Katie and Ariel
Sam was an ape-like wolf…. Kim and Michelle
I never got caught really. Marissa
Wait, wait, I want to say the best part of my day... Oh wait, I forgot what I was going to say. Marissa
A wolf can actually kill a bear. Tiff
The worst part of my day was falling and getting stung by a bee. Ben
The best part of my day was falling and getting stung by a bee. Ben
Because Allie will throw moss on the fire and cause smoke everywhere. Ariel Coyote
Let’s all give Allie a BIG, BEAR MOAN… GRRRRRRRRRRRRR
Must you poke me in the armpit? Ary to Allie.
All I have to ask is where did the other shoe go? Ben
Throw the baby and we will catch it!!! Quote from a campfire story chosen by Katie and Marissa
I CAN’T FIND LAMBIE!!!!! Emilie
Let’s all have a moment of silence for the Baby and Lambie….. Campers ponder this….
NEVERMIND!!!! Emilie
Thursday, July 21, 2011
After the eagle flew over, it seemed like a good time to get up and out of the sleeping bag. The night on the beach was pleasant. The Great blue heron spent a good part of the daybreak in the gentle surf. Hunting seemed slow, so it flew on after some time. There were some early risers from the tents. Mendy offered up early coffee and cocao and Greg took some time to soak up the morning before the others wandered to the fire. Riley was up early to tend to the fire so we had something to warm our bones and shake off the morning chills. With a bit of surprise, the rest of the camp was up and around the fire by 7:00am… it’s amazing when there is no clock and just the bright of the sky to stir the inner spirit. The early morning provided the chance to explore the beach, the shoreline, and the connection with the forest. We were fortunate to have a Western Tanager entertain us for a bit with its feeding acrobatics along the edge of the forest. By midday we had ventured to the pools, riffles and logjams of the Dewatto River. Our brief collection included an array of stream bugs, many coho parr, a nice cutthroat trout, and some egg masses of unknown origin. There were some shivering campers at the end of it all, but it was hardly noticed because of the thrill of the discoveries. Someone even said they’re starting to feel like little salmon. That’s too cool. Dan
Riley has been the master fire-maker for us. The “Pyro” got ‘burned’ trying to start a fire this afternoon. He reached for the lighter forgetting it was still hot, bummer. A clumsy mistake that you only make once. The fires have been good.
Ben “The Ninja” finally got “Pyro” wet after a couple tries. Pay back for the water fight at the river. He is a wimp, when it comes to water. “The Ninja” is not, however.
Tommy- tonight the dancing circle for reclaiming lost items to the beat of the drum is pretty, umm… interesting, let’s just leave it at that,
I never lost things at camp when I was a camper but today I left my bag of cool rocks where the boy scouts will have their fire tonight and Emily found it and I had to dance for the first time at salmon camp in my life and I know why I never wanted to dance before. –Katie
I had no idea boys (Riley & Ben) giggled so much!
Many campers had to dance last night to get their stuff back they left behind that leaders had to pick up. Some exciting interpretive alpaca and t-rex dances!
We closed the evening around another good fire… this time further up on the bluff overlooking Hoodsport. The boy scouts have taken over the other fire pit. We can still hear their voices through the forest night. There are camper shadows on the tent walls as they find their way to sleep. Tomorrow is a day kayaking, so we need to send good thoughts to the winds for a calm day.
2010 Overnight Camp
Day 1 - Tuesday, Aug. 10th, 2010It has been a wonderful start to our journey this year. After our morning circle to bring our energies together, we headed to the old cedar tree in the forest. It was here that we learned of our clan groups and chose a necklace. We then took a trip to the Dewatto River and spent some time walking the stream adn discovering stream bugs. The folks from North Bay Kayaks brought us kayaks to Dewatto Bay. We spent a good part of the afternoon exploring the estuary of Dewatto Bay all the way out to Hood Canal. The north wind kept us from exploring too far up the shoreline beyond the estuary. The tide was rising during the afternoon, which provided us the opportunity to paddle a good distance up the river. We found a good swimming hole up the river. Jeremiah made an impressive back flop off the tree stump in the river. The estuary revealed to us the Great Blue Heron rookery, a juvenile Bald Eagle, several Kingfishers, and a Pigeon Guilemot which fly right over the water between our kayaks. We eventually found our way to the campfire to dry out and warm up. The Barred Owl (at least one) kept us company for a part of the evening. Roasting hot dogs and s'mores made for a nice end to the day.
We're looking forward to the plan for tomorrow which will take us to a research vessel out of Port Ludlow, and then onward to the Little Quilcene River to pitch our tents.
Thanks to the Salmon Spirits.
~Dan
I know this is the beginning of our journey, but I really can't imagine what it's going to be like when we really get into it. I think that I would really like to come here every year, either as a counselor or as a camper.
~Georgette Lugalia
Things that we did were awesome, but the thing that I like best was collecting necklaces. I liked it because everybody got to pick their own individual necklace.
~Aj Flint
This is my second year of salmon camp. I enjoy it every year. My favorite part has to be spending time in the water.
~Tommy Secrest
This is my first year at salmon camp and I'd have to say the kayaking was very fun, especailly when we kayaked through the grass.
~Avry Martin
Today we had the pleasure of seeing numerous great blue herons in a concentrated area. At one point I counted about ten in one tree. My own experiences tell me that when animals gather it is an occurrence of significance. Lo and behold it was a blue heron rookery (where they have, and protect their young until they are ready to go off on their own). Animals gather for birth, survival, and death (especially in the case of our salmon friends). It was an amazing experience to catch a glimpse into their world and their life's journey as we are on our own journey. Who knows where we've come from and who knows where we are going, but at this point in our lives, our paths crossed. It was an amazing opportunity.
~Megan, camp counselo'
I got to camp and we went boating and talked about the river and saw a lot of things.
~Wesley Glenn, camp member
Today we kayaked and I got stuck in the tall grass. I also ate pickle weed for the first time.
~Whitney Johnson
Into the river.
I love you mom.
~Jeremiah
I had to pull the kayak and Jon through the reeds when Jon wanted to "land-surf" in the really shallow water. I kept falling in. I got off on this little island and Jon thought it would be funny to pull out and leave me stranded, so I jumped on the kayak and skid off. Of course there was a sudden drop off in the water. So I got all wet. Then once I managed to get back on the island, gripping the kayak I pulled the kayak after me and got run over. Jon laughed so hard I thought he was going to cry.
Bye I Love you nonni and papa,
~Emilie
At first we made ourselves nature names and tried to name everyone, mine was Jaystin Jellyfish. Then we went on a small hike and got necklaces that had little pictures on them. After that we went to our campsite and set up. Then we went kayaking, and I went from a 2 person kayak to a 1 person kayak. We all got soaked and had tons of fun. Then we had dinner and roasted s'mores and now we are going to our tents.
~Jaystin
Day 2 - Wednesday, Aug. 11th 2010
Oh, it was an early morning. The drum beat reached into the sleep minds and brought them back to the shores of the Dewatto River. Breakfast and packing were a quick scramble in order to get on the road to Port Ludlow. The research vessel (R/V) Indigo was awaiting.
Our journey across the Hood Canal bridge was shrouded in fog. It was unusual not to see the water while crossing the bridge. It was good fun on the R/V Indigo. We stopped at several places in Admiralty Inlet to collect phytoplankton samples which we examined in the lab under the microscopes. We traveled past the O.R.C.A. mooring buoy along the way... and later looked at the data via an internet connection on the boat.... http://www.nanoos.org/. Too cool!
The afternoon was filled with thrills and unfortunately, spills. It was a race for a double scoop ice cream cone for which John took an unexpected tumble. During the evening campfire we all sent our thoughts through the fire asking the smoke to reach John so he could feel our energies.
The gravelly point was our evening home. We watched falling stars and enjoyed our banana boats. Jeff Beck shared our fire. And even took an extra banana boat home. Thank you Jeff and Herb for sharing your space.
We miss John. Thank you Salmon Spirits for guiding our journeys.
~Dan
Today there were a lot of porpoises, and usually I only see 2 or 3 and it was fun.
~Avry
Went to a town. Snorkeling adn set food traps. And went on a boat.
~Wesley
Ohh. It was a beautiful morning with clouds breaking through the sky. The fog lifted in the morning and we had an enjoyable day on the SEA boat... doing phytoplankton pulls, observing them through mircoscopes, piloting the boat and how to "Do Some Good for the Hood"....Fun and games in Port Ludlow and camping tonight at the Little Quilcene River. Some campers have even seen falling stars this evening.
Our thoughts and best wishes for our fellow camper John that his collar bone will heal quickly and he may join us again soon. You're a winner John, we all miss you and hope to reconnect with you tomorrow or Friday.
~Kim
Dude, I'm stuck at some camp please help. J/K, Luke
PS John has my prayers.
The boat today was the greatest experience ever.
~Georgette
I love you nonni and papa
~Emilie
It is wet in the water.
JMS25
Oh Luke and his zombie dreams...
"Luke Sleepwalker"
Day 3 - Thursday, Aug. 12th 2010
Today was by far my favorite day. The waterfall and blue hole were so beautiful. Words can't really describe how great they were. For people who don't know what the blue hole is, it's a little rocky hill surrounded by clear crystal blue water. The water is so cold but so clean and refreshing.
~Avry Martin
Today I had a lot of fun especially with the glass art and seeing all the fish at Rocky Brook Falls. They were really colorful and somewhat big. And the whole day was just really fun. The blue hole was awesome.
It was very very fun I also like the wolf and elk game.
~Logan Horniak
The best day of the camp to me, was this day. I say this because on this day we went to the Hamma Hamma River, while there we travelled through the woods, deep into the forest and got to the blue hole. That was a great experience.
~Georgette Lugalia
The best part about summer camp was watching everyone jump into the blue hole that was my awesome experience.
~AJ Flint
Day 4 - Friday, Aug. 13th 2010
Whoops, we've been so occupied with camp activities, we haven't pulled ourselves away to blog.
A summary of Day 2 evening:
After the research vessel adventure, we set up our estuary campsite along the Little Quilcene River (we had to cross the river to get to our campsite), went swimming/waded out to island, campfire on Quilcene Bay under the stars, tracking activity & set up some soot trays to capture animal footprints, made kabobs for dinner, made banana boats for dessert, watched shooting stars until it was time for bed.
A summary of Day 3:
Moved onward from our Little Quil campsite, and met with local artist Marcia Hildebrandt to make some fused glass suncatchers. We built our suncatcher and she took them away to be fired in her kiln. Everyone really enjoyed this art activity and we're excited to see how they turn out on Saturday! Continued our journey to the Rocky Brook Falls waterfall. This was a very tall waterfall with an excellent swim/snorkel/jumping hole at the bottom. From here we traveled to our Hamma Hamma campsite where we set up for taco night. We hiked through the forest and along the river to the Blue Hole...always a favorite swim destination for overnight campers. You'll have to ask them about it...I don't like to reveal it's secrets. Campers gathered in the evening for a lesson on carving and firebuilding.
Summary of Day 4:
Before we left the beautiful Hamma Hamma property, we played the famous Elk/Wolf game. Another thing you'll have to ask campers about. We spread out on the property and the wolf pack learns how to be wolves and track/hunt the elk, while the paranoid elk learn what it's like to live the life of an elk while being constantly aware of their surroundings.
From here we moved on to the Skokomish Tribe and shared some time with Michael Pavel in their longhouse. We shared some stories, drumming and learned the importance of respecting people & their diverse perspectives and about respecting nature.
Afterwards we cooled off at Twanoh State Park and had lunch along the Hood Canal.
We made our return journey back to the Salmon Center property to camp that night. We also played a GPS geocaching game as well as a game that taught us how salmon returned to their native streams. Campers had to remember the scent of their natal river and blindfolded, had to work their way upstream and choose which stream to return to.
That night we made pie iron pizza and spent our last night together under the stars.
~Camp Staff
I was a wolf.
I love you mom
~Jeremiah
Going to the tribal longhouse was part of MY favorite part. It was great to experience and learn about a different culture! When we played the elk and wolf game, it felt like we were actually elk and wolf. It was an amazing game and I am glad I got to come to adventure salmon camp!
~Nancy Lugalia
Today was really fun especially the wolf and elk game.
~Avry Martin
I really liked the fourth day, what I liked about it was that it wasn't just about fun and games we learned. We learned how the fish try their hardest and use all their scents to return back to their home streams. We also learned how the native tribe used to live and all the hard things they went through to get to where they are today. It was a really great experience.
P.S. The Wolf and Elk game was really fun
Lesson of the day:
When presented with two options, to take the longer route or the shorter one through dangerous territory, the wise person should choose the longer route (however it appears not all of us were wise).
After all, life is a journey, and not a destination.
~Megan
"Does chocolate leave a stain?"
~Jeremiah
Day 5 - Saturday, Aug. 14th 2010
Jeremiah slept with cholocate in his mouth... and woke up with chocolate drool on his pillow... and mine.
Waking up to a bird chorus on the farm.
~Kim
We ended camp this year with a picnic lunch after our closing ceremonies. Families gathered and stories of the week were shared during our last few hours together.
Thank you Salmon Campers for a fun adventure this year!
We look forward to seeing you next summer!
~ Camp Staff
Adventure Salmon Camp
2009 Overnight Camp
~ Day 1 – Tuesday, August 11th
The day started with a little drizzle, but the salmon spirits continued to bring sun breaks as we found our way out of the Dewatto River. We spend the midday exploring the pools, riffles, gravel and bends of the river. We collected a good sample of stream bugs and discovered a two-inch long eel-like critter that the campers were challenged to figure out… it might be anadromous.
We watched the variety of caddisfly larvae navigate the gravels and discovered some which had swarmed to some small fish carcasses amongst the gravels… nutrient cycling in process!! During one of our group discussions about the direct and indirect relationship to salmon, a little weasel timed his river crossing right in front of us all… well trained.
Our subsequent journey to our ‘nearshore’ campsite allowed us to explore the beach and feel the tide creep up on us. Some discovered the delicacy of limpets over the beach fire. We’re getting ready for some pie iron dessert over the campfire.
-Dan
Don’t talk trash to blackberry bushes… I have the bear scratches to show for it.
-Dylan H.
We used some of the old driftwood on the shores of holly, and prepared oysters off of the beach many people had some except for Ari who is a vegan. I have not had one yet but I soon will and when I do it will be great, or I hope so.
-Luke
DONT HIT THE TREE!!!
-Charie
When you’re surrounded by great people in a great place, the rain doesn’t matter that much! Can’t wait for our next adventure tomorrow in Port Ludlow!
-Megan
Ariel ate seaweed. Holly is a very pretty campsite.
Today was beautiful! Exploring was fun! The food was delicious!
- Sam
I love and miss you Nonni and Papa, for dinner we had this pizza sandwich things, made using pie irons, I really want a pie iron now, please?
Love, Emilie
today I had a blast… exploring… finding new things… amazing I cant wait to see wat happends next
-nadine
Oysters, limpets, and sea weed over an open fire. Yum!!!...
Mike
Day One- So many hands to help; hurray!
Great company; great surroundings – our fry are starting to emerge!
Starting off on our sea journey. Hope for smooth waters and few predators.
~Shell, Camp Staff
Had lots of fun today. Can’t wait for more adventures. Had a great dinner. Yum!
Max
Rain, name game, van ride, Dewatto River, bugs, sun, lunch, van ride, Holly, nearshore, dinner, Raven story, bed! Can’t wait for tomorrow.
-Michelle camp staff
It turned out to be a beautiful day! The Dewatto was loaded with caddisflies and many other interesting critters that kept campers curious all day. Finishing up our pie iron pies next to the water at our lovely secluded Holly campsite. Excited to be on the water tomorrow exploring the marine waters of Hood Canal!
~Renee, Camp Staff
~ Day 2 ~ Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Tired, wet, water, animals, caddis fly larva, weasel, Dewatto River, plankton, tying knots, pilot house, oysters, tire swing, shore crabs, seasickness, ravens, deep, clams, dead fish, crawdads, porpoise, fish jumping, green, gray, blue water, gull, popping kelp, pie irons, washing dishes, Sky Chief, blue, cold!, rocky, gravel, cuts, excited!, smoldering log, estuary, awesome, seaweed, little toad, stream, Impey Creek, drumming, song that the animals gave the humans, metal grate, fire, water, boat!, canoe, S’Klallam, tire swing, limpets, oysters, roasted, snoring, carving house, longhouse, gelatinous plankton.
- Salmon Camp clan members brain storming event
The good folks of the SEA Adventures treated us to a day on the marine water of Admiralty Inlet. We spend time exploring the world of phytoplankton while traveling northern Hood Canal.
- Dan
After we got situated today, some of the campers & I went out exploring the beautiful river conveniently connected to our site. We trekked over storm-piled wood, through miniature rapids, and across homemade bridges of drift wood. At the beginning of our journey I had piled on two jackets to keep warm & deflect the rain, but within ten minutes the storm clouds left and the sky had cleared up. Some of the guys even went swimming! Our epic adventure of river crossings, timber scaling, and animal track identifying became a bonding moment between campers & a defining moment in my trip. :)
- Kristin
Saw phytoplankton, and zooplankton under the microscope. Worked on knots and steering in the wheelhouse. Overall had a great day and hope tomorrow is even better.
- Max
While on the boat, we discovered how to steer, navigate, control the speed of the boat.
I’ve crashed in my neighbor’s yard with a dirt bike, no damage. Had I crashed the boat well I wouldn’t be here. But glad I am.
-Luke
We got to ride on a boat that SEA adventures provided, and got to catch phyto and zooplankton and look at under microscope, learned how to pilot the boat, learned how to tie bumpers on boat, and lots of other really fun activities.
-Isaiah
Wow is all I can say salmon camp is fantastic. Just so many things happened today first we went to an Indian building we got to see were they perform and the canoe the tribe uses. Next we were on a boat this boat isn’t no ordinary boat it was helping the Puget Sound, that was very interesting we looked at different planktons, my favorite part was learning how to drive the boat it’s not actually as hard as it looks, but there is a lot of skill involved. Last, but not least was our new camp ground. The best part of the camp ground was the glacier water it was crazy cold, but worth the jump. Salmon camp is great.
-Tommy S. =o
I’ve been having so much fun. The water today was so cold. We had found and ate oysters yesterday. I love you.
Love and miss you Nonni and Papa,
Emilie
Amazing bioluminescence in the water last night! It was like fireflies or stars in the water as Emilie describes it. Spent the morning with Mike Jones from the S’Klallam Tribe. He shared some moving stories and we saw some beautiful native art in the carving house. The afternoon was spent on the water with SEA Adventures. The campers caught and viewed some interesting phytoplankton and zooplankton under microscopes. We’re currently cooking banana boats and enjoying ourselves around the campfire. These campers tell some weird stories!
~Renee, Camp Staff
Look up at the big trees!
~Ariel
A lot of fun.
Katie
Seagulls in the morning flying by during our thanksgiving,
Raven croaking in the trees by the sea,
Banana boats by campfire,
All special moments during our adventure …
Kim
Banana Boats!!!
-Michelle camp staff
~ Day 3 Adventures
Woke up this morning to the calls of an eagle, an owl and an elk all along the Dosewallips River. A little later we saw two elk down by the river. They were calling to each other from opposite sides of camp. It seems strange to me that such a large animal can have such a high squeaky call.
Our journeys later that day took us to a special piece of private property along the Hama Hama River. There we played a compass/scavenger hunt game which brought up some interesting connections that 137 species have with salmon. Under a special cedar tree along the creek, each group found a gift in the woods, a little token of sorts, which reminds us that we are connected to salmon, too. After lunch, a few brave souls jumped into the Blue Hole…too cold for my blood- you’ll have to get the story from them. We ended our afternoon at the Hama with some heavy rain and thunder.
Before setting up camp along the water at Beard’s Cove, the rains stopped, and the sun actually started to peak through – just for us. ;)
This morning we’re warming up by the fire with cocoa, waiting for the tides to come in for our return *kayaking* journey to the Salmon Center property. I can’t wait!
~Renee, Camp Staff
Went to the Blue Hole yesterday had lots of fun there. Today we are kayaking back to the Salmon enhancement center.
- Max
We are going kayaking today, I love you Nonni and Papa
Love Emilie
Yesterday we went to the blue hole and Montana, Tommy, Nadine, Katie, and Rusty jumped in and we heard an array of colorful words lol. U had to be there. ;)
Yesterday morning some us got to see an elk crossing the dose river not ten meters away from our campsite, luckily we had a camera! At Hamma hamma we all learned to navigate our way through the woods with gps and compasses-though the campers told me the task would be easier on a boat. A little later we were treated to some pretty severe rain! But managed to escape okay to Beards cove where we stayed up late telling ghost stories and bad jokes. A lot of fun that day.
-Ariel
Last night must have been the best sleep I’ve had all week! Today we go kayaking up the Union River.
-luke
The game was tite! The site was awesome! The food was great! – Sam
Yesterday, we went to see the Blue Hole- and a few of us went swimming in the cold water. The rest of the day was mostly in the van, while driving. I spent the night in the open air near the river, and awoke to the sounds of Blue Herons, Ravens, and lots of other really cool looking and sounding birds.
-Isaiah
Overnight Camp
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