HERYN June 24, 2025 (Day 5): Participants catch fish, learn lessons to protect waterways at day camp

Twelve-year-old Jackson Myers, of Watsontown, struggled to pinpoint just one highlight from his Tuesday, June 24, 2025, HERYN (Helping Engage our River's Youth with Nature) kayaking and fishing program day despite a record heat index nearing 110 degrees.

"My favorite part of the day was fishing ... kayaking and ... when I fell into the lake," he said.

Which led into the one takeaway he couldn't wait to share with friends and family when he got home.

"I can teach them to properly get into a boat after you fall out," he said, referencing a session all participants receive earlier in the day in a swimming pool going over best practices to board a flipped kayak. 

Myers was one of 14 participants in the June 24 program day, rotating between fishing and kayaking fundamentals and skills instruction leading to competitions. They also received an Enviroscape program with discussion on ways that each 8-13 year-old can help the greater watershed by making changes at home.

"We can bike, scooter and walk to closer places," suggested Myers. His 10-year-old brother, Jamison, added: "Make sure your car has no oil leaks."

A number of other participants suggested cutting back on littering, while nine-year-old Nora Driscoll, of Muncy had another suggestion: "Use less chemicals."

Learn more about our HERYN program days here.

Check out photos from the June 24 program day below: