With spring taking its sweet time getting here, it seems almost too early to start thinking about children’s summer camp programs. But many camps’ registrations are already well under way.

The McHenry County Conservation District has hosted a number of day camps for children ranging in ages from 6 to 15. Their camps focus on ecology, the environment, science and outdoor skills. Camps are held at MCCD properties around our area, including Marengo Ridge and Coral Woods conservation areas. Some day camps for the 12 to 15 age group also include a one-night overnighter at the end of the camp week, and one focuses on teaching canoeing skills in addition to other outdoor activities.

Their day camp programs are some of the most reasonably priced camps in our area  — most are priced between $40 and $70 for a five-day program. My daughter attended day camp at Coral Woods over one summer, and she had a fantastic time cooking outdoors, learning about wildlife, and going on archaeological “digs” in the woods.

These camps do tend to fill up quickly, and registration is currently open. Campers can register online via MCCD’s Web site. For more information on MCCD’s day camp program, call (815) 338-6223 or visit www.mccdistrict.org/systems/ors-programs.asp.

Springtime guided nature walk searches for spring

If you’re really looking for signs of spring, you might enjoy the hike that the Marengo Park District has planned for Saturday, April 5. Participants can join guide Diane Bradbury for a short adventure hike through Indian Oaks Park’s nature trail, where they can learn about the park’s sedge meadow wetland and how important it is to Marengo’s aquifer. Hikers will observe emerging spring plants and learn about them as well.

Those interested are invited to meet at the entrance to the park’s nature trail, which is located near the bottom of the toboggan hill. The walk will be approximately 1.5 miles long, and participants are encouraged to dress for the weather. The trail is not stroller accessible, though children are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

The nature hike is free of charge. For more information, call the Marengo Park District at (815) 568-5126 or visit www.marengoparkdistrict.com.

Free inkjet refill day is back

Anyone who owns a computer knows how expensive printer ink cartridges can be. It’s a little less costly to refill the cartridges versus replacing them, but at our house it seems we’re always replacing ink in one printer or another. I’m happy to tell you about a way to get a free ink refill next week.

The Huntley Walgreens (12000 Princeton Drive, Huntley) periodically has a Free Inkjet Refill Day promotion, and the next one takes place Wednesday, April 2. Customers can bring one black or color inkjet cartridge and receive a refill, completely free of charge.

For more information on Free Inkjet Refill Day, call the Huntley Walgreens at (224) 569-6514.