Camp News

The most exciting development at camp has been the construction of a suspension bridge across the Smith Brook, directed by David Blocher (father of Saul, Semester alumni 2004). We are now preparing to work on our woodworking shop, building a new composting toilet and finishing our Solar System. The solar system received the much needed addition of four new batteries and two panels in time for the semester start. To complete the next phase of the work we need four more panels and batteries and an efficient freezer and refrigerator for our kitchen, which can operate off the solar system.

David, Thomas and parent volunteers at work
building our Ecuadorian style bridge

It has been a long and difficult process to bring our low impact wilderness operation into compliance with State regulations. This process is not over yet. Many of our friends have been asking for an update. The short summary is as follows: We have paid a $6000 fine for the violations. Fines are being used for an environmental project and we have a say in who will be the recipient of the funds. We will have to construct a much different composting system (it will still accomplish the same goal). We may need to implement other changes (we are waiting on several permits and a hearing on April 10). State process, while it has the best intentions behind it and wonderful human beings administrating it can be inflexible and bureaucratic. We can choose to fight the dragon or continue to focus on our work with children. We chose the latter. In the end we will be stronger and in a better place as an organization. It boils down to the following learning for us: If we want to operate within the society we cannot completely ignore its present ways. We have to find a place where our way of living is acceptable, which will continue to involve compromise and flexibility. Please call Misha if you’d like a more detailed report. We will issue a summary once the process is complete.

Please come to a hearing on April 10th. It will begin with a site visit at 9:30 AM at the base camp, followed by a hearing at the Newfane Town Office. Please call us at 802 387 5397 for more information.