June 11th is “Get Outdoors Day”

This Saturday (June 11) is “Get Outdoors Day”.   Surveys show that kids spend 50% less time outdoors than they did 20 years ago according to Jim Hubbard, Deputy Chief for the U. S. Forest Service. 

Hubbard says they want families to reconnect and experience nature. He says just being there is worth it.  He says people will experience what it’s like to stand on a trail in the trees or listen to birds and streams.

Hubbard says there are other benefits as well, such as stress reduction.  He says environmental awareness is also part of the campaign.

Hubbard says if you can’t take part in an activity scheduled for “Get Outdoors Day”, then just visit a national, state or local park. You can also just go outdoors near your home and take a walk.

Hubbard says there are special activities across the country on Saturday.  You can find a list of events near your home at discovertheforest.org.

In Pennsylvania, events are taking place at Bald Eagle, Moraine, Parker Dam and Pine Grove Furnace state parks. The state has 117 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forestland. You can get more information on events at state parks at www.dcnr.state.pa.us/Calendar

Governor Tom Corbett has proclaimed June as Great Outdoors Month in Pennsylvania.