Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of gear does my child need?

Students who are just starting out in ELC need only have their personal gear including appropriate clothing and a backpack for their lunch and water bottle. The ELC can provide tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, sleeping pad, etc. It is extremely important that your child be dressed for the weather, we rarely cancel due to weather. We can never stress enough, dress for the weather! This includes a wicking layer (100% poly layer, found in most stores in the athletic area of clothing), and if necessary, a warmth layer (polarfleece or wool), and a waterproof layer. Additionally, footwear that fits securely and is appropriate for the activity. If you have any questions or need personal gear, please contact us. We have some personal gear to lend.

Who can participate?

Tiny Trees: 2nd and 3rd grade

Young Explorers: 4th and 5th grade

Main program: 6th through 12th grade

Adult Program: Various adult programs throughout the year.

How do I sign up?

Each season,  a newsletter is available to view on our website  with the list of programs.  We send out an email to notify when the seasonal newsletter  is available.  There is  approximately a two week sign up period after the newsletter is posted. The sign up deadline is listed in the newsletter.  New students should fill out the form under the “new students” tab. We will create an account for you and you will then receive an email with a link to create a password and sign up for programs.  Medical and Assumption of Risk forms are required during summer sign ups.  These are also available to fill out online under the students tab.

When do I sign up?

Call or email the ELC to get on our emailing list. We send out a newsletter four times a year. On or around February 1st, April 1st, August 1st and November 1st. The newsletter is available online as well.

How do I know if my child got into a program?

You will be notified via email  what programs your student got into. We try very hard to get everyone into at least one program. Some of the aspects we consider when putting courses together are: age of students, a mix of males and females, student choice, etc. If you do not get into a program you asked for, you are automatically put on the waiting list and will be contacted if any openings should arise. Programs ARE NOT on a first come, first served basis.

How do I know when programs are available?

Check our current Newsletter. 

What are the requirements to complete a Naturalist Plaque?

To start a plaque: 10 programs

To complete a plaque: 15  programs including 2 Level III programs