What is the Summer Camp? Program activities include five days of fun-focused learning which includes:

Day 1: Watershed, Water Rights & Drinking Water
California and water-these two will always be inextricably linked. No resource is as vital to California's urban centers, agriculture, industry, recreation, scenic beauty and environmental preservation as its "liquid gold." Students will look at the technology that protects our drinking water supply; learn about the work behind the transformation of water resources into healthy, functional, attractive, and safe community assets; and explore the basis for California's water rights system which balances conservation and protection of vested rights, water quality and the environment.

Day 2: Waste Water Treatment and Remediation (Field Visit)
Did you know that 'bugs' help us clean up the water! Learn more about wastewater and see the largest industrial recycled water project in the State of California; make, treat, and test wastewater over a week-long lab process; explore a tidal wetland with scientists; see how to conduct restoration as well as remediation in the prevention of adverse environmental and health impacts including exploration of e-waste and the importance of recycling of electronics.

Day 3: Air Quality & Climate Change
Has the Earth warmed? Which human activities contribute to climate change? What further climatic changes are expected to occur, and what effects do these changes have on humans and the environment? Students will learn from experts about climate change, trends and projections. In addition, the heart of important air quality topics will be explored including causes and consequences of air pollution. Topics include: where pollution comes from, what's in the air and why we should care, how ozone forms, how haze affects visibility, why air gets trapped, and how air quality is monitored.

Day 4: Day's Focus: Power and Alternative Energy
Investigate traditional fuel-efficient technologies used in energy generation; visit a simple-cycle cogeneration facility, and explore renewable "green" power strategies; learn about emerging technologies in power generation; engage in hands-on activities related to solar-power; and see how clean, convenient, non-polluting use of solar energy can be used in every-day cooking.

Day 5: Career & Controversy
Over the last decade, attention to the impact of environmental pollution on particular segments of our society has been steadily growing. Students will hear point/counterpoint discussions with leading industry experts on Environmental Justice; be entertained by a local environmental celebrity; and conclude the week-long experience by presenting student team presentations on a variety of ethical issues including Turbines vs: Wildlife Protection; Fossil Fuel versus Alternative Energy versus Nuclear; Endangered Species vs Growth; Hetch Hetchy: Save it or Tear it Down; Competing Needs of Delta Water; and Reducing Solid Waste. The Camp will conclude with an industry panel and student exploration of career pathways to jobs in Contra Costa County.