COLUMBUS, OH – As part of a nationwide effort to reconnect youth to the outdoors and encourage increased visitation to Ohio’s state parks, nature preserves, forests and public waterways, Governor Ted Strickland has proclaimed June as “Great Outdoors Month.”

“Ohio’s vast natural resources and recreational opportunities contribute to a high quality of life and attract citizens, businesses and tourists alike,” Strickland said. “Great Outdoors Month will help make sure that Ohio’s outdoors remain places where families and children can learn and create lasting memories, while promoting active, healthier lifestyles.”

National Great Outdoors Month is one aspect of the Get Outdoors USA campaign, which encourages Americans, especially youth, to seek out healthy, active outdoor lives and embrace parks, forests, wildlife refuges and other public lands and waters. The national campaign is sponsored by the American Recreation Coalition. The U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Park Directors are coalition partners.

“Great Outdoors Month presents a significant opportunity for Ohio’s young children to take part in ‘Explore the Outdoors,’ the state’s new campaign to reunite children with their natural world,” Strickland said.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources kicked off “Explore the Outdoors” in May as an incentive for elementary-age school children to participate in worthwhile outdoor activities like canoeing, hiking, birding, fishing and camping. A dozen local park districts, as well as the state departments of health and education, are co-sponsoring the campaign.

On Saturday, June 14, Ohio will observe Get Outdoors Day with state parks hosting a variety of outdoor activities, including campouts, reenactments, fishing derbies and special Father’s Day family fun. Families are encouraged to take part and get outdoors to complete these activities. A complete list is available at ohiodnr.com.

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For Additional Information Contact:
Cristie Wilt, ODNR Communications Chief (614) 265-6787
Jane Beathard, ODNR Media Relations (614) 265-6860