During our visit to the Roanoke Cashie River Center, the Bertie County 4-H Summer Campers were warmly welcomed by Spencer Bost, the Science Program Specialist. He shared with us the uniqueness of the Cashie River in Bertie County and demonstrated the difference in the color of its water as compared to other rivers in the area, such as Roanoke, Chowan, and Meherrin. The Cashie River, being a black-water river, is distinctly darker in color and is 14.6 miles long, lying entirely within the county boundaries. Its water is similar to that found in the Amazon Forest. Mr. Bost also spoke about the wild inhabitants of the area, including beavers and red foxes, and showed us a video that explained how these inhabitants can shape the land and river. He then screened a four-part video on the Lost Colony, which highlighted two recently discovered archaeological sites (Site X & Site Y) in the Salmon Creek area that might answer what happened to the colonists from the Lost Colony. We then split into two groups, one of which went on an indoor scavenger hunt through the Museum, where they learned fascinating facts about Bertie County's history, settlers, and wild inhabitants.

During their excursion, the second group embarked on a scenic cruise along the Cashie River accompanied by Mr. Joe Huff. Both groups were fascinated by the many intriguing sights they encountered, including an osprey, a water snake, numerous turtles, and a plethora of birds and insects. Mr. Huff shared with us that Bertie County was previously a bustling port that imported a wide range of goods. He took us to see the remnants of the old docks, the turning basin, and the man-made canal designed to accommodate larger shipping vessels. In addition, we explored the locations of an old sawmill and a pumping station that was once used to keep the logs moist. We passed by the Cashie River Tree Houses.

New friendships blossomed among the children, who relished observing the turtles at the Museum. Echoing laughter filled the air, and everyone reveled in the joyful atmosphere. Several campers eagerly expressed their anticipation for the next session.