Recently I joined students from across the state who converged at the Stone Valley Recreation Area in Petersburg, PA from June 13 and 17. They were selected by the Wildlife Leadership Academy to attend the Bucktails Field School. The purpose of the academy is to “empower youth to become Conservation Ambassadors in order to ensure a sustained wildlife, fisheries, and natural resource legacy for future generations.”

On opening day, the students were greeted by many enthusiastic instructors in the fields of biology and botany including Dr. Chris Sacchi, Lisa Smith and Dr. Gary Alt.

The students attended lectures on plants and their relationship to deer, then collected and pressed various plant species. On the second day a veterinarian performed a deer necropsy, which allowed students to explore the anatomy and learn about the functions of important deer organs.

Mid-week students focused on the technical aspects of nature photography and practiced taking their own photos. Students took a field trip to the Scotia Range where they practiced firearm safety and were instructed in the basics of archery. For many ambassadors, this was their first encounter. I already had some archery/rifle experience, so I coached some of my fellow teammates in these activities.

The remainder of the week included many exercises such as use of a GPS, radio telemetry to locate collared animals for research and a mock town hall meeting to discuss deer management issues from different viewpoints. To conclude the week, each student had to prepare and present a tri-fold project on a topic of interest that was studied during the week. Throughout the field school the “bucktails” also participated in various team-building activities to show and sharpen leadership skills.

Even though the field school is over, students are not finished. Now we must become ambassadors and complete outreach projects in our communities to educate the public about wildlife concerns, problems and preservation.

There are other field schools, such as bear, ruffed grouse, bass, brook trout and turkey. If you are ages 14 to 17 and are interested in learning about this program, visit wildlifeleadershipacademy.org.

[Rachel Olver is a sophomore at Honesdale High School.]