HORSESHOE – Parsons, WV – While many children stayed indoors this summer, those who attended Camp Horseshoe learned a new socially distanced outdoor activity to share with their families—stream snorkeling.
Chad Landress, Fisheries Biologist with the Forest Service, has been introducing young people to the wonders of snorkeling in shallow streams throughout the Monongahela National Forest for several years. Horseshoe Run in Tucker County is perfect for snorkeling due to its clean, clear water. “I enjoy bringing this program to kids at Camp Horseshoe every year,” he says, “because they get really excited about what they find. Kids can learn how to snorkel at camp and then take the skill home to do with their families in their own local streams.”
US Forest Service and Camp Horseshoe staff, volunteers, and campers took precautions to keep all participants safe by maintaining social distancing, sanitizing equipment, and wearing face coverings. “Snorkeling is the perfect social distancing outdoor activity, and you don’t have to travel far to do it,” says Emily Huguenin, assistant director at Camp Horseshoe. “All you need is a snorkel mask and a few inches water to explore; it’s amazing what you’ll find in your own backyard.”
More information about youth programs at Camp Horseshoe is available at www.yla-youthleadership.org, by phone at 304-478-2481, or by e-mail at horseshoe@yla-youthleadership.org.
