Bermuda's farmland may be disappearing under a tide of concrete and tarmac, but the enthusiasm for growing and raising their own produce is still thriving among Bermuda's youth. During the 14th annual Bermuda Youth Agricultural Camp this summer, young people were involved in a number of activities intended to nurture their appreciation for the skills and knowledge required to provide Bermudians with nutritious food in a sustainable manner.

The four-week sessions attracted over 50 students, many repeat campers ranging in age from six to 15, who engaged in a variety of hands-on activities, from planting square-foot gardens to feeding and caring for goats, pigs, chickens and rabbits as well as classroom instruction and a variety of field trips.

Last Friday evening an enthusiastic group of camp participants, parents and dedicated environmentalists gathered for a barbecue and awards presentation at the conclusion of the summer programme. Dr. Fred Ming, Government Environmental Protection Director, presented each camp participant with a certificate of accomplishment and hearty congratulations.

In his welcoming remarks, Norwood Salaam, camp founder, recounted its history as the dream of fellow former Parks Ministry Staff who believed in sharing their expertise and "green love" with young Bermudians through the creation of the camp. He praised the work of Dr. Susann Smith, who was this year's administrator, assisted by Tina Christopher, Caroldey Douglas & Norbert Simmons.

Several generous supporters joined the celebration and were thanked for their commitment to the programme: Peter Exel, making his farmland available for the camp; dairy farmer, Richard Bascome; organic farmer and environmental enthusiast Tom Wadson; Toi Wellman, of the Government Marketing Centre and Gerry Wilmot, supplying many animals and demonstrating goat milking and cheese processing.

At the conclusion of the awards, the young environmentalists lingered and reluctantly said goodbye to their budding plants and new four-legged friends as camp mascot, "Pepe the donkey" headed to bed.