Insects play an important role in our diverse environments and varied ecosystems. Although many insects transmit diseases and can be a nuisance, many more species provide an excellent source of nutrients for other species. The proteins and minerals from insects are vital to the growth and maturity of birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles and fish. Many helpful insects consume a large number of harmful insects in a complex predator prey relationship. Many specie specific forest insects (i.e., beetles assist us in breaking down wastes from the forest floor such as bark, leaves, limbs, trunks and dead animals.

The production of honey by bees and the pollination of plants by insects to produce seeds, nuts and fruits are extremely noteworthy. Campers who participate will visit a wide variety of diverse ecosystems and will collect a multitude of species for identification, study and preservation to initiate a personal collection of insects.