Fourteen students kick off HERYN program with 182 fish caught and a better appreciation for resources during Thursday, June 18, event

Fourteen young people kicked off the first HERYN (Helping Engage our River's Youth with Nature) kayaking and fishing day camp programs at the Central PA Wesleyan Campground near New Columbia by picking up new skills in each activity and also considering a variety of tips to keep our waterways clean.

"Don't throw trash in the woods," suggested 8-year-old Joseph Knauss, of Winfield, adding in his exit survey that the one thing he learned that he can teach others were "reeling techniques."

Nine-year-old Sam Witmer, of New Columbia, suggested we all should "not use a lot of water in the shower" in an effort to conserve water. Before Thursday's program, he said he "barely fished and never kayaked." He wound up catching eight fish and admitted that he liked kayaking the best out of all the activities offered.

Ultimately, the program is designed to spark an interest in waterway activities and stewardship of those resources.

"I loved all of it," said 11-year-old Lola Caruso, of Hughesville. "Before today, I did not fish or kayak often, but now I want to get a lot more involved."

Collectively, the 14 participants caught 182 fish the first day.

Check out photos from Thursday's program: