Young Ohioans Will Enjoy Summer Fun at Explore the Outdoors Events

COLUMBUS, OH - Beautiful summer weather is here and it's time to be outdoors. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), through the Explore the Outdoors program, is providing parents and children with a variety of family-oriented events to help Ohioans jumpstart healthy outdoor lifestyles.
 
Explore the Outdoors is an exciting, hands-on family program that gives Ohio children the opportunity to reunite with nature, improve their physical and emotional health and discover the rewards of becoming environmental stewards. Through the program, ODNR provides Ohio parents, grade school teachers, youth leaders and outdoor educators with an easy activity guide to lead Ohio's young people into the outdoors and an interactive online resource, www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com, which families can use to find exciting outdoor events.
 
In July, which is National Park and Recreation Month, special Explore the Outdoors events will continue to be posted on the Explore the Outdoors web site. Upcoming events (through July 12) are listed here:

 
The program's activity guide recommends fun outdoor activities, including Spot a Bird, Hike a Trail or Camp Under the Stars. Families can accomplish all of the activities noted in the book at state parks, forests, preserves and wildlife areas throughout Ohio. Families can also complete some of the activities at local parks, green spaces or even at home.
 
Explore the Outdoors participants can find special activity completion codes posted at welcome centers and kiosks in participating ODNR and partner facilities statewide. Children who enter at least two codes on the Explore the Outdoors web site will receive a printable certificate signed by Gov. Ted Strickland. Participants can also get entered for other prizes, including a GreenBird birdhouse and a state park camping excursion.
 
Parents and teachers can contact 614-784-PLAY (7529) or explore@dnr.state.oh.us for additional information or to request activity guides and program resources.
 
ODNR appreciates Explore the Outdoors sponsors who share a desire to improve the health of Ohio children and families by getting them outdoors. Sponsors include ODNR Division of Recycling, American Heart Association, American Family Insurance, GreenBird Birdhouses and Whole Foods.
 
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: ODNR will provide bi-weekly updates of Explore the Outdoors events throughout Ohio. Please help promote healthy outdoor lifestyles for Ohio families by listing the events on your calendar.

For further information, contact:
Beth Ruth, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860
Jason Fallon, ODNR Public Relations
614. 784. PLAY (7529)