In September, Kingsport Mill employees helped educate nearly 700 fourth grade students from Sullivan County, Bristol and Kingsport during Keep Kingsport Beautiful’s annual Conservation Camp.
Held at the Eastman Recreation Area over three days, students learned about a variety of environmental topics, including insights into wildlife habitats, forest fire control, the importance of pollinators, how to identify wildlife skulls and skins, and where water goes after a rainstorm.
Dan Wernick, procurement forester, led the “Trees 101” session, educating students about how trees grow and how Domtar uses them.
“Helping students understand the role trees play in our environment and how sustainable forestry supports both nature and industry is incredibly rewarding,” Wernick said. “Conservation Camp is a great opportunity to inspire the next generation to appreciate and care for the world around them, and we are proud to be part of that educational experience.”
Bonnie Depew, environmental manager, led a session on “Making New from Old: Cardboard Recycling.” Depew was joined by fellow Kingsport team members Julia Ives, purchasing manager; Austin Phillips, health and safety specialist; and Ellie Southern, human resources generalist.
“Students learned how waste cardboard is made into new boxes, about other materials that can be recycled and how everyone can help the environment by recycling,” Depew said.
In addition to Domtar, other presenters included Bays Mountain Park, Hands On! Discovery Center, Keep Kingsport Beautiful, Kingsport City Stormwater Department, Nuclear Fuel Services, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Tennessee Division of Forestry, Tennessee Valley Authority, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, WJHL Storm Team 11 and Warriors Path State Park.
“Conservation Camp is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn new things about our environment and why it’s important to protect it,” said Sharon Hayes, director of Keep Kingsport Beautiful. “We appreciate all the presenters who give of their time and talents to share with the students. And we thank all the schools that attended and encourage others to join us for camp next year.”