The Junior Ranger Program is one of several efforts by the Maryland Department of
Natural Resources' Maryland Park Service to provide young people with conservation
information, environmental education and recreational experiences.
Throughout the year, Rangers and naturalists lead children and teens, ages 8 - 14 years, through an
introductory lesson. Junior Rangers can then complete a series of explorations about nature,
stewardship and recreational fun.
Junior Rangers can earn three achievement awards: Basic, Advanced and Expert. They
launch their in-depth study with the Junior Ranger Quest Activity Book, full of games, puzzles
and educational activities. They earn awards as they make progress. Other, more self guided
levels, such as Naturalist, Explorer, Conservationist and Guide are available beyond the Expert
level.
Topics for study change yearly. Topics include: birds, reptiles and amphibians, fish,
mammals, wildflowers, trees, wetlands, Chesapeake Bay, Native Americans in Maryland, boating
safety, camping and drug awareness.
Junior Rangers is a multi-disciplined outdoor education program with four main
outcomes:
- To provide a meaningful and enjoyable environmental education experience for youth who visit Maryland State Forests and Parks.
- To foster in youth a sense of stewardship towards Maryland's natural resources.
- To assist youth in developing an environmental and outdoor ethic that will influence their decisions in life.
- To create an awareness and interest in careers in the Department of Natural Resources.
For more information, contact the
state forest or park nearest to you.
