ADA, OK – Oka' Camp, sponsored by the Oka' Institute and the Ada Jobs Foundation, has provided a groundbreaking outdoor educational experience for local citizens and leaders. With water sustainability emerging as a critical need for the Ada region, the camp aimed to create a deeper understanding of water resources and their importance through immersive, hands-on encounters.
In response to growing community concerns about the health of the Blue River—an essential water supply for Ada—the Oka' Camp offered participants the unique opportunity to engage directly with the natural waters that sustain their region. The camp’s mission was to foster appreciation and understanding of water sustainability, while empowering leaders and citizens to support the development of water resources in meaningful ways.
“Oka' Camp is more than just an outdoor adventure; it is a multimodal learning opportunity designed to bring people face-to-face with the realities of water stewardship,” said Dr, Christine Pappas, Policy and Education Coordinator. “By offering these firsthand experiences, we hope to inspire ongoing action and support for water sustainability in Ada and beyond.”
Participants heard from Kim Elkin, an aquatic ecologist, on watershed ecology and learned about the vital connections between healthy ecosystems and water supplies. Music by local artist Suzanne Woolley provided a reflective backdrop, while poetry and creative writing workshops led by Ken Hada allowed participants to explore their relationship with water on a personal and creative level.
The Oka' Institute, in partnership with the Ada Jobs Foundation, is committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources in the region. With events like Oka' Camp, the community is better positioned to appreciate, protect, and develop its natural resources for future generations.
For more information on the Oka' Institute and upcoming events, visit www.okainstitute.org.
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