Junior Rangers learn nature know-how in area parks.

Imagine you're a turtle trying desperately to survive. You need to get to your feeding grounds but you face dune buggies on the beach. You need to perpetuate your species but dogs dig in your nests. Your life is in constant danger from human beings, other wildlife and the whims of nature.

This game of "Turtle Hurdle" is played by 6-12 year olds participating in the Army Corps of Engineer's Junior Ranger program at West Hill Park in Uxbridge. The exercise is an introduction to the three missions of the Corps: flood control, recreation and resource management. "It's neat to see the children make connections with wildlife and watch them go full circle," said Park Ranger Viola Bramel.

After experiencing life from the perspective of a turtle, children learn about the different types of rangers and their various roles. They learn about woodland safety - and the all-important skill of identifying poison ivy - as they take turns leading a hike. They identify species and age of trees, tour the dam and study invertebrates in the water, and finish the week with a barbecue and water safety demonstration.

Bramel said that the Junior Ranger program provides an excellent introduction to careers in environmental management. The program ties into the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, and works with Northbridge High School's life science classes. It's also a mentoring partner with Milford and Douglas schools.

The Corp's level one Junior Ranger program will be offered at West Hill Park on July 15-19 for 6-8 year olds and July 22-26 for 9-12 year olds. Both programs run from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. For children who have completed the level one program, several more intensive, hands-on level two programs are offered per month. Pre-registration is required for all Junior Ranger programs. Contact Army Corps of Engineer ranger staff at 508-278-2511.

Another Junior Ranger program with a Blackstone Valley heritage twist is offered at River Bend Farm at Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park in Uxbridge. Junior Rangers meet on eight Mondays in July and August, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This level one program, offered to children 11-14, features canoeing, bike riding, and exploring the natural and cultural resources of the park. Participants receive a Junior Ranger badge if they attend at least five of the sessions. To register, contact Rangers Val Stegemoen or Kristen at 508-278-7604.

For younger children ages 5-10 and their parents, River Bend Farm hosts a Junior Naturalist drop-in program on Fridays and Saturdays in July and August, from 10:00 a.m. - noon. Junior Naturalists take a nature walk and make a craft related to their exploration, such as leaf pressing or insect creations.

The Blackstone River Valley offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural heritage, and summer is a great time to explore these resources with children. Junior Rangers and Junior Naturalists take an important step in learning to preserve, protect and make a connection with the area in which we live.

Read previous Focus on Education articles...

Six years of focusing on education. (November 2006)
Teachers apply lessons to the workplace in externships. (October 2006)
Teachers tour growing Blackstone Valley industries. (November 2005)
Summer learning abounds in Blackstone Valley. (July 2005)
Teachers tour growing Blackstone Valley industries. (April 2005)
Preparing for the future while living in the present. (March 2005)
Local hero gives charge to youth leadership class. (December 2004)
Externships provide on-the-job training. (September 2004)
Interns reflect on career experiences. (May 2004)
Creative programs thrive with support from Education Foundation grants. (May 2003)
Business mentors see their shadow on job shadow day. (February 2003)
Teacher learns on the job in business externship. (August 2002)
Summer program teaches math through arts. (July 2002)
Junior Rangers learn nature know-how in area parks. (June 2002)
Leadership Blackstone Valley graduates ready to create the future. (May 2002)
State's schools face looming teacher shortage. (April 2002)
Art program bridges subjects, learning styles, and community. (March 2002)
Students shadow career mentors on Groundhog Job Shadow Day. (February 2002)
Parent involvement the key to student success. (October 2001)

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