The National Park Foundation has announced the launch of the 2009 Junior Ranger Essay Contest, asking youth across the country to share their big ideas on how to protect and preserve Americaâs national parks.
This year, the foundation is asking kids this question: "Why are our national parks important to you and what is your best idea to protect our parks for the future?"
The first prize winner will receive a $1,000 Visa gift card and the opportunity to direct a $5,000 contribution from the National Park Foundation to his or her favorite national park. This contribution will be used to help put into action big ideas like those included in the winning essay.
Kids aged 9 to 12, with the help of a parent or guardian, have through May 1st to submit an essay of no more than 500 words. Entries may be submitted online at www.nationalparks.org/essaycontest or by mail at:
National Park Foundation ATTN: 2009 National Park Foundation Junior Ranger Essay Contest 1201 Eye Street N.W. Suite 550-B Washington, D.C. 20005
The 2009 National Park Foundation Junior Ranger essay contest is sponsored by Unilever, Proud Partner of Americaâs National Parks, as part of the its ongoing commitment to the Service's Junior Ranger program.
Ruby: 1.8.7, Rails: 1.1.6