Hi! I’m Jon Ciatti, one of the counselors with CCL. We’ve had a quite an awesome last 2 days here at Northland College, visiting the Bayfield Peninisula twice, and getting out on the water as well!
Yesterday, we spent our morning hiking above the sea caves formed by Lake Superior’s water and ice. Beautiful views, and a fun muddy hike the whole way. We ate lunch above one of the rock formations, and our guide Max helped explain to us some of the fun attributes of the area as well as cultural significance of the sea caves.
In the afternoon, we went sea kayaking. After learning the strokes and proper paddling technique from Max, we went out for a nice paddle along the sandstone shores of the lake.
In the evening, we attended a local cultural center known as Big Top Chetoqua, a large festival tent filled with seating and a stage area at the base of a ski hill. Big Top brings in musical acts and community discussions throughout the spring, summer and fall. In the event we attended, along with about 200 other people, we listened to the ideas of speakers from across the the country in regards to sustainability and change.
Yesterday, we went to Lake Superior and sampled macroinvertebrates from the swimming beach. The kids had a great time both sampling and watching the small insects under a dissecting microscope.
In the afternoon, we visited the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center and learned about historical use of the Lake Superior area, as well as wetland ecology along the boardwalk.
Following our trip to the NGLVC we went to a local bed and breakfast that is known as the most sustainable in the country. Through showing us his biodiesel refinery, passive solar hot water heating system, and aerobic waste digester, Steve Sandstrom (owner) explained his process behind making decisions for the types of products and services he would provide. Mr. Sandstrom explained that integration of different thought areas, such as economics, environment, and social justice, all play a part in choosing the correct option for a business while doing the best for the planet.
Northland College has provided us with a great hands-on learning experience, and has helped to bring together the sometimes difficult to grasp concept of conservation. Thank you Northland College!
