|
Cordova ranger district receives more 'Kids in the Woods' funding
USDA Forest Service, Chugach National Forest - April 30, 2008
Through a challenge cost-share program called “More Kids in the Woods,” the
Forest Service is contributing to a growing national movement to bring kids
to nature – and nature to kids. For the second year the Forest Service has
awarded Challenge Cost Share funds to Forest Service offices, to be matched
by private sector or nongovernmental organization contributions.
The Cordova Ranger District of the Chugach National Forest received $11,000
in matching funds for the More Kids in the Chugach program. Cordova
District and the Prince William Sound Science Center will partner to
provide two, one-week educational and recreational camp experiences for 20
under-served youth from Anchorage. The grant was one of 16 projects that
were awarded to Forest Service project leaders and their partners from
around the country. More than 270 proposals were submitted. The awards plus
matching funds by partners will exceed $2 million.
The temperate rainforest, Copper River Delta, and Prince William Sound will
be the backdrop for this experiential education program. Activities will
increase participants’ awareness and appreciation for the ecosystem, and
will encourage a life-long appreciation for the outdoors. Participants
will acquire new skill sets in an exciting outdoor setting, bolstering
their confidence to continue learning new skills as their personal
relationship with the natural environment develops. The camp will be based
at the Boy Scout Cabin at Mavis Island on Eyak Lake outside of Cordova.
Students will be transported by the Alaska Marine Highway from Whittier
through Prince William Sound to Cordova. A Forest Service naturalist
onboard will help the participants spot wildlife and discuss the natural
history of Cordova and its surroundings. Additional partners in the project
include the Alaska Marine Highway, Alaska Department of Fish and Game,
Ilanka Cultural Center, the Anchorage Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big
Sisters, and Boy Scouts of Cordova.
The Forest Service has a long history of working with teachers, youth
groups and others educating children about the natural environment. This
year’s funding for More Kids in the Woods continues that tradition by
helping children be better prepared in the future to care for the land as
they cope with climate change, demographic changes and increasing demands
for clean air, clean water and other benefits from nature.
Supervisor’s Office, Chugach National Forest
3301 C Street, Suite 300, Anchorage, Alaska 99503
Voice: 907.743.9500 Fax: 907.743.9477
www.fs.fed.us/r10/chugach
|
