The Estevan Wildlife Federation braved the heat last weekend when they hosted their Youth camp. 

Eleven year old Colton Hall was awarded Camper of the Year. (photo courtesy James Lainton)

"It was definitely a record year for temperatures that's for sure," shared James Lainton, one of the organizers of the camp, "But camp went off very well."

"We had a good group of kids that really listened about being prepared in the heat and that went a long way to making it go off without a hitch."

The hosted 42 campers, along with leaders, instructors and countless volunteers. 

"The idea behind the camp is that we really give the youth the chance to get involved in activities and such that you wouldn't normally get involved with. Whether that's speaking with trappers or shooting guns in a controlled environment with range officers who are trained or simply being outdoors and camping in a tent which some people don't partake in very often."

Safety was a big topic at the camp as kids learned how to start a fire safely, how to use tools such as knives as well as firearm safety. 

"We had a number of people on Saturday that are range officers that came and spoke to the children and showed them the proper way of handling guns and getting them the chance to use them in a safe environment."

Lainton added that the group of volunteers who came out to share their expertise was invaluable to the camp. 

"Some people drive great distances to speak to these children and work with these children. Without them, without people donating their time as well as bringing equipment whether it's guns or furs to show the children what they've trapped and giving them hands-on experience, those volunteers from the community are probably the biggest key to making this a success that it is."

 

(photo courtesy James Lainton)

(photo courtesy James Lainton)