Wilmington, IL – The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is set to launch its Junior Forest Ranger program with a kickoff event on Wednesday, June 12, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Midewin Welcome Center. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the open house event requires no registration and is open to children ages 5 and older.
The Junior Forest Ranger program aims to engage young people in environmental stewardship and education. The kickoff event will feature an array of activities designed to inspire a love for nature and conservation. Highlights include a special appearance by Smokey Bear, who will help children understand the importance of preventing wildfires. Participants will also take the official Junior Forest Ranger oath, marking their commitment to protecting natural resources.
In addition to meeting Smokey Bear, children can partake in various art and adventure activities. These hands-on experiences are intended to provide a fun and educational introduction to the responsibilities of a forest ranger.
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, located at 30239 S. State Route 53 in Wilmington, IL, offers this program as part of its ongoing efforts to foster community involvement and environmental awareness. For more information about the Junior Forest Ranger program and other activities, visit the U.S. Forest Service’s website at www.fs.usda.gov/midewin.
