National Park Service News Release
For Immediate Release – February 11, 2008
David Barna (202) 208-6843
Kathy Kupper (202) 208-6843
Junior Ranger Essay Contest Announced
Winner to Receive Family Vacation and Other Prizes
(Washington, DC) – The winner of this year’s 2008 Junior Ranger essay
contest will receive an all expense paid family vacation to one of the
country’s most remarkable national parks and a starring role in an
electronic field trip seen by millions of school children across the
country.
The essay contest is open to children between 9 and 12 years old. Each
person must express his or her thoughts on “What can you do now to turn
over a new leaf for the environment and help preserve our national parks?”
National Park Service Director Mary A. Bomar, First Lady Laura Bush, and
National Park Foundation President and CEO Vin Cipolla announced the
details of this year’s contest during a recent visit to Everglades National
Park in Florida. A group of local 5th graders joined them to help plant
native trees in a park restoration project prior to the announcement.
“Children throughout the country, like those here today, are more
interested and involved in environmental issues than ever before,” said
Bomar. “They can make a difference, both now and in the future, on the
impact of humans on the land. I can’t wait to hear all of the wonderful
ideas that will come from this essay contest.”
The grand prize winner will receive a trip for four to Everglades National
Park where he or she will appear in an electronic field trip about invasive
species in national parks. The prize includes round trip air
transportation, car rental, hotel accommodations, meal expenses, a $1,000
Macy’s shopping spree, and an America the Beautiful National Parks and
Federal Recreation Lands Pass.
Essays must be 500 words or less and received on-line or by mail by March
14, 2008. Each entry will be judged on originality, clarity, and
understanding of the issue. Additional contest information is available at
www.nps.gov.