It is our mission at NREC (Natural Resource Education Center) to increase awareness, appreciation of the natural resources around us, and to understand the stewardship necessary to sustain them. These goals are met through in-depth, science based, experiential education, and outdoor recreation. NREC began the Maine Woods Explorers program in 2005 providing quality hands-on, nature-based activities that are challenging and fun to youth both local and beyond since then. A new program that has evolved from the success of MWE is Outlet for High School students.
High School Week - Hiking, Paddling, and Leading in the North Woods, August 10-14, overnight, limit to 12 campers: Outlet is a new program and its goal is to prepare teenagers for the challenges of the future, while also experiencing some epic adventures in the woods and on water. High school-aged students will be empowered through immersive wilderness experiences in the North Woods to explore not only the woods and waters but their personal strengths. By navigating the woods and water trails of the Moosehead Lake Region, participants develop resilience, teamwork, and self-reliance. Participants will camp, hike, go whitewater rafting, take a canoe trip, and packraft - these adventures will be a source of strength for personal growth and leadership. By mastering outdoor skills, campers will build a rugged foundation of grit and technical confidence. This week is an opportunity for growth, equipping high schoolers with the decisive action and autonomy needed to lead in any environment they encounter. At Outlet, we prove that if you can navigate the Moosehead wilderness, you can navigate anything. This program is open to rising 9th-12th graders from Piscataquis County and Jackman.