Education/Resources
- Trout in the Classroom (TIC) is an environmental education program in which students in grades k-12 . . .
• raise trout from eggs to fry.
• monitor tank water quality.
• engage in stream habitat study.
• learn to appreciate water resources.
• begin to foster a conservation ethic.
• grow to understand ecosystems.Most programs end the year by releasing their trout in a state-approved stream near the school or within a nearby watershed.
During the year each teacher tailors the program to fit his or her curricular needs. Therefore, each program is unique. TIC has interdisciplinary applications in science, social studies, mathematics, language arts, fine arts, and physical education.
In each state, Trout in the Classroom is funded by a number of generous supporters and made more rich through varied partnerships.
- We currently have trout programs in several of the local schools and also at the Grafton Lakes State Park. Trout will be released in the early spring into nearby waterways
Fly Tying Get Togethers
- Fly Tying
A donation of $10 is recommended to cover materials and use of the space.
Tyers aged 12 and up are welcome.
We plan to hold a special event for younger tyers, anglers and families in the spring, so stay tuned.
To register: email [email protected]. We have space for 10 students so register right away!
If you have any questions, please text or call Tom Carroll (518) 795-5818.
Bailey Mountain Fish and Game Club, 531 Snyders Lake Road, Wynantskill, NY 12198
Brittonkill School District establishes an Angler’s Club
On Thursday, March 6th, the Home Waters TU President, the Rensselaer County Conservation Alliance President and Home Waters Youth Chair presented at the initial meeting of the Brittonkill Central School District’s Angler’s Club.
The Presidents introduced the mission of their respective clubs, how the clubs work together, and how they can assist the school club in their inaugural season.
Middle School/ High School Club adviser, Mr. Kevin Barcomb, has stepped up to begin the program with a young membership. These students will be able to enjoy this opportunity and pioneer the club for future students.
Department of Environmental Conservation Education Camp
About the DEC and the Camp Program
Each year we sponsor one young adult to a One (1) week summer Environmental Education Camp held at one of New York State’s Environmental Campgrounds.
Camp enrollment begins on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 1:00 PM.
Please see this link for more information and to fill out the application:
https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/summer-camps/how-to-register
Applicants will be required to fill out the NYS DEC application and send a copy of the application to Home Waters at PO Box 62, West Sand Lake, NY 12196 for sponsorship consideration.
Qualifications for Sponsorship
– Applicant must be between 12 & 17 years of age at start of camp
– Applicant must be a U.S. Citizen
– Applicant must be within regional area of our chapter
We look at a couple of items to help us choose a qualified applicant:
– Child of one of our members
– Friend of one of our members
– Student of our Trout in the Classroom program
For more information about these camps as well as their specific locations, please visit Department of Environmental Conservation Education Camps.
For over 60 years, the DEC has provided a residential summer camp program in conservation education for young New Yorkers. All four camps, Colby, Pack, DeBruce and Rushford, serve children who are 12 to 14 years old. In addition, DEC offers a week-long Ecology Workshops for teens who are 15 to 17 years old at Pack Forest during the first five sessions of camp.
At the camps, youth become immersed in conservation education, participating in fun activities and games that teach the wise use of natural resources. There are eight weeks of camp a student can choose from in the months of July and August. Campers are encouraged to return the next year for a Returnee Week, offered only to campers who have already enjoyed the camp program. Special trips and activities are planned for this week. Sportsmen Education courses are offered at Camps Colby, DeBruce and Rushford, and shooting sports are offered for a few weeks at Pack Forest.
Organizational Links
Rensselaer County Students attend
Youth Fly Tying Workshop
Home Waters Chapter 586 of Trout Unlimited (HWTU) hosted a youth fly tying workshop on Friday, March 14th from 10 am until noon at Bailey Mountain Fish and Game Club, in Wynantskill.
Students ages 8 and up (through grade 12) and their parents/guardians were invited. No experience was necessary. Home Waters provided vises, tools and materials. Students were able to learn the basics of fly tying or work on new skills.
HWTU volunteers assisted students as instructor, Volunteer Tom Carroll, led the program. Tom guided students through learning parts of creating a fly, selecting the materials, setting up their equipment, and making their own flies. Beginning students completed 2 wooly flies and those with more experience were assisted to explore other types.
Another opportunity will be announced on the HWTU website https://homewaterstu.org/
The Home Waters Chapter of TU acts in support of the National mission of Trout Unlimited – to conserve, protect and restore cold water fisheries and their watersheds, through education and conservation efforts focused in Rensselaer County, New York.
