While children are engaged in summer activities, they might as well be learning in order to keep their minds active.

Kids attending the Chilton County YMCA summer camp went on a field trip to Minooka Park Thursday, but what they found was more than just a walk in the park. They broke up into groups to learn about forest and pond ecosystems, and in the process they got to dig for bait and do a little fishing.

The event, Lakeside Learning, was funded by CAWACO Resource Conservation and Development Council and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. A grant from the organizations is also funding new fishing equipment that will enhance kids’ experience at the park.

This event really shows our park being put to good use. The education building on site, as well as the lake, provided a unique learning environment for the kids. We hope to see more of this in the future.