With chances to experience nature in its purest form becoming increasingly rare, students in Grand Bahama are being offered that opportunity twice a month, thanks to a popular program organised by the fast-growing environmental movement, Save The Bays.

More than 40 youngsters are participating in the classroom and field exploration program called Youth Environment Ambassadors.

In recent weeks, they’ve explored national parks, kayaked through mangroves and heard from experts involved in park management and eco-tours. They’ve met with environmentalists from the Lucayan National Park and from Grand Bahama Nature Tours. They’ve trekked through pine forests, and majestic mangroves, habitats and incubators for hundreds of species, an experience that left the junior high school students and all of the facilitators in awe.

“It was one of the most amazing experiences I have had to date with Save The Bays,” said Javan Hunt, STB YEA Program Facilitator. “Being part of Save The Bays has helped me learn so much about my Bahamas and I am happy to be here...”

That group was led by professional tour guides from Grand Bahama Tours, a leading eco-tour operator whose president, Mrs. Erika Gates, said the company that has opened the eyes of so many over its 20-year history was glad young people were being exposed to what Grand Bahama has to offer off the beaten path.

“It is especially important for us to introduce young Grand Bahamians to our natural treasures,” said Gates. “It’s completely necessary in order to conserve our beautiful environment.” In addition to the safari adventure, the young ambassadors received a preservation lesson from National Parks Manager of Grand Bahama National Trust, Lakeshia Anderson.

Anderson engaged students about the 30 national parks in The Bahamas, three of which sit on the island of Grand Bahama, and the important role they play in ensuring that nature is preserved. Parents were invited to join in on the fun at a leadership session, giving them an opportunity to understand the popular program that is geared toward awakening interest in the environment and potentially opening their eyes toward careers in marine biology or other environmental sciences and study.

“The parents immensely enjoyed the experience and wanted to know how soon they could be back for a visit,” said Joseph Darville YEA Program Director. “Some even expressed the desire to be invited to sit in on the regular sessions.”

The program that leads to certification serves as the educational arm of Save The Bays and is driven by funding from the organization that is partnering with more than a dozen community-based groups and associations aimed at protecting the physical and cultural heritage of The Bahamas.

In addition to its educational efforts, Save The Bays is committed to passage of a Freedom of Information act, environmental protection act, accountability for oil pollution, and an end to unregulated development. With more than 17,200 Facebook friends and nearly 7,000 signatures on its petition, the association is the fastest-growing NGO in The Bahamas.