Today, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) dropped the names of the lucky young victors in the America 250 Field Trip Competition, a contest that hooked students' interest in the great outdoors with art and essays—because nothing says 'appreciate nature' like a little healthy competition.
In what appears to be a beautifully orchestrated ode to Ohio's green spaces, ODNR rolled out the red carpet for students from 37 counties who put pen to paper or brushes to canvas, expressing how nature's played a part in their lives, the competition drawing a portrait—not literally, folks—of the state's next generation of conservationists. ODNR Director Mary Mertz was quoted in the announcement, saying, "Every submission told a unique story about Ohio’s great outdoors that makes me excited about the future of conservation in the state" and praising programs like Arts in the Parks that bridge the gap between art and the environment.
Don't expect ODNR to drop the ball now, these programs are more than a one-off. They're designed to stitch together a continuum of experiences for Ohioans of all stripes to delve into state parks, natural areas, and forests, which, if we're being honest, could use a bit more foot traffic—and not just for 250th-anniversary celebrations.
