Alabama State Parks launched a new Junior Ranger Program this week to inspire young people and promote conservation and stewardship of the outdoors, the agency said in a news release.
The program is open to children of all ages, with activities designed for ages 5-12. It is open to families, school groups, scout troops, homeschoolers and youth organizations, and it does not require prior experience.
“Our Junior Ranger Program is about more than exploring the outdoors,” Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship said. “It’s about inspiring the next generation of conservationists. We want every child who visits an Alabama State Park to leave with a sense of wonder, a deeper appreciation for nature, and the confidence to help protect it for years to come.”
Blankenship joined state parks leaders and Paul McCormack, president of the National Association of State Park Directors, Tuesday at Oak Mountain State Park to formally launch the program. The program is funded through a grant from the Bronco Wild Fund, a Ford Motor Company initiative that supports conservation, preservation and responsible outdoor recreation.
“Ford has long been committed to helping preserve public lands and promoting responsible access,” Natalie Simon, Ford’s manager for enthusiast brand customer experiences, said. “Bronco Wild Fund makes good on the Ford promise to build a better world where everyone is free to move and pursue their dreams. We’re proud to support Alabama State Parks, through an America’s State Parks access grant, with creation of their Junior Ranger Program—an important educational initiative in Alabama and the local community.”
The Junior Ranger Program is available at every Alabama State Park, giving children opportunities to explore mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, beaches and caverns across the state.
Free program booklets are available online and at park offices, nature centers and from park naturalists. Many parks also offer guided Junior Ranger programs throughout the year, with activities, interactive learning experiences and special events focused on environmental literacy.
“We’re inviting kids across Alabama to step outside, get their boots dirty and discover something amazing,” Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps said. “The Junior Ranger Program turns every park visit into an adventure, and it makes every young explorer into a steward of our state’s incredible natural resources. Today’s junior park rangers will become tomorrow’s conservation leaders.”
Teachers and homeschool families can integrate the program into science, ecology, conservation and outdoor recreation lessons.
“Being a Junior Ranger means having fun—and protecting the places you love,” Alabama State Parks said.
Junior Rangers pledge to respect wildlife by observing animals from a distance, leave no trace by disposing of waste properly and leaving natural and cultural items in place, and stay safe by sticking with family and exploring responsibly.
Families can download the free Junior Ranger booklet or schedule a guided field trip with a park naturalist. Educator resources are available, and parks can tailor programs to specific learning goals. Details are available at alapark.com/JuniorParkRanger.
“The Junior Ranger Program blends hands-on learning with real-world adventure,” Capps said. “It supports educators, engages families and empowers young people to understand conservation not just as a concept, but as a responsibility.”
