DEC launches magazine to connect children to nature

New York is launching a new nature magazine for youths, filled with photos, articles and tips on activities designed to encourage children to reconnect with the outdoors and the natural world, said Pete Grannis, Department of Environmental Conservation commissioner.

"Conservationist for Kids," published three times per year, will be written for students at or around fourth-grade level. The publication will be sent to fourth-grade public classrooms statewide.

"In a world full of iPods, Xboxes and 500-channel digital cable, our youngsters are spending more and more time indoors on the couch, disconnected from the natural world," Grannis said. "'Conservationist for Kids' gives children across New York a reason to venture outside, offering fun and informative activities that we hope will spark a connection and concern for nature that lasts a lifetime."

"Conservationist for Kids" is part of DEC's broad-based plan to connect more New Yorkers to nature. It will feature information and activities to encourage young readers to explore outdoors at school and at home.

For information on the "Conservationist for Kids," go to www.cforkids.org or www.dec.ny.gov.