Students attending the Summer Institute at Irondequoit High School spent the last several weeks researching possibilities for Camp Eastman, specifically how to use the land at the south end of the property. They have been conducting research, making several site visitations, and interviewing various stakeholders from the community.
The students present their recommendation, to establish an Arboretum at Camp Eastman, at 9 a.m. today, Friday, August 10 at the site, 1301 Lake Shore Blvd., adjacent to the Van Lare sewage treatment facility.
Students envision an information kiosk, picnic area; rock Japanese, celebration, rose, perennial and "giggle" gardens; a gazebo, koi pond, greenhouse and more.
Students said they recognize the arboretum could take years to cultivate and grow, but say they chose it over other options — like a skate park or more sports fields — they considered because they felt it fit better with the natural beauty of the site.
"I wish we (the town) had some basic funds to start it right away," Irondequoit Supervisor Mary Joyce D'Aurizio said after the presentation and a short hike to the site. "I like that their idea is multi-generational, could be used year-round and would be open to residents of any age to enjoy the beauty of our town's parks."
"We know there would be costs involved," said student Andres Rivas, "but we'd also like this to be something that involves the community and schools."
"Just as schools do field trips to Helmer Nature Center now, they could do field trips (and projects) here, too," added classmate Joe Cumbo.
The Summer Institute, now in its thirteenth year, provides 10th and 11th grade students with hands-on experiences that enable them to refine their skills in English language arts and social studies.
Students attending the Summer Institute at Irondequoit High School spent the last several weeks researching possibilities for Camp Eastman, specifically how to use the land at the south end of the property. They have been conducting research, making several site visitations, and interviewing various stakeholders from the community.
The students present their recommendation, to establish an Arboretum at Camp Eastman, at 9 a.m. today, Friday, August 10 at the site, 1301 Lake Shore Blvd., adjacent to the Van Lare sewage treatment facility.
Students envision an information kiosk, picnic area; rock Japanese, celebration, rose, perennial and "giggle" gardens; a gazebo, koi pond, greenhouse and more.
Students said they recognize the arboretum could take years to cultivate and grow, but say they chose it over other options — like a skate park or more sports fields — they considered because they felt it fit better with the natural beauty of the site.
"I wish we (the town) had some basic funds to start it right away," Irondequoit Supervisor Mary Joyce D'Aurizio said after the presentation and a short hike to the site. "I like that their idea is multi-generational, could be used year-round and would be open to residents of any age to enjoy the beauty of our town's parks."
"We know there would be costs involved," said student Andres Rivas, "but we'd also like this to be something that involves the community and schools."
"Just as schools do field trips to Helmer Nature Center now, they could do field trips (and projects) here, too," added classmate Joe Cumbo.
The Summer Institute, now in its thirteenth year, provides 10th and 11th grade students with hands-on experiences that enable them to refine their skills in English language arts and social studies.
