Applications Being Accepted for ODNR’s America 250 Field Trip Competition
Article Presented By The Bean Foundation…
(ODNR) – As part of the America 250-Ohio celebration, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is hosting a special competition for Ohio students who love the outdoors. ODNR’s America 250 Field Trip competition offers students in grades 3 through 12 a chance to participate in an exclusive field trip of their choice with ODNR staff.
“These field trips are one-of-a-kind activities that truly highlight some of the most unique aspects of Ohio and our natural resources,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “I look forward to seeing all the submissions from our young people across the state and seeing what nature means to them, especially in this celebratory year!”
Contest applications for ODNR’s America 250 Field Trip are now being accepted online. To enter the contest, students will submit either a piece of artwork or short essay about how Ohio’s natural resources have played a role in their life. One winner will be selected for each of the following categories:
- Art: Grades 3-5
- Art: Grades 6-8
- Art: Grades 9-12
- Writing: Grades 3-5
- Writing: Grades 6-8
- Writing: Grades 9-12
Submissions will be reviewed by a panel of ODNR staff for all six categories. Winners who are selected can choose from a variety of field trips put together by staff. Some amazing examples of exclusive experiences are as follows:
Step Back in Time: Heritage Hike at Mohican State Park
Join historians and park naturalists on an exclusive guided hike as you explore the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). This special hike will take you along the scenic Lyons Falls Trail to Pleasant Hill Trail, where you’ll uncover the stories behind the CCC’s work in shaping Mohican’s iconic features. As part of this unique adventure, enjoy an unforgettable overnight stay in one of the park’s charming cabins nestled along the river, and a personal visit with the Nature Center animals.
Ultimate Wildland Firefighter Experience
The lucky winner and their friends will dive into wildland firefighting, learning firsthand from the brave men and women who fight the flames. Spray a fire hose, dress in firefighter gear, and even practice putting in a fire line! If conditions allow, you’ll take your bravery to new heights by climbing a fire tower for the ultimate vantage point! This experience is available at one of the following state forests: Blue Rock, Hocking, Mohican-Memorial, Scioto Trail, Shawnee, Tar Hollow, or Zaleski.
Scenic Fall Adventure: Muskingum River Parkway Pontoon Boat Canal & Locks Tour
Set sail on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Ohio’s Muskingum River Parkway this fall! This exclusive tour takes you through the historic locks and canals of the Muskingum River, where you’ll witness American engineering history in action. Watch in awe as your guide demonstrates the operation of these unique hand-powered locks and learn about the rich heritage of the river and its vital role in the region’s development. Boats can accommodate about 7 people.
Lake Hope State Park: History Around Hope
This field trip includes an exclusive guided night hike at the famous Moonville Tunnel in partnership with Vinton County Park District. Discover the history of the area and ghost stories of those that still haunt the rail trail. Afterwards, you and your family will settle into a cozy one-night stay in a cabin at Lake Hope State Park and enjoy your own exclusive tour of the Nature Center and education animal ambassadors.
Dark Skies & Cozy Cabins: A Cowan Lake State Park Escape
Explore the park in the dark! Join a guided night hike exploring night sounds and stars. Naturalists and a local wildlife expert will also demonstrate using an Echometer to identify bats by their calls. Then settle in to enjoy a campfire and visit to the nature center to meet the education animals. This trip also includes a one-night stay at a cozy cabin that sleeps up to 6 people.
Behind the Scenes at Zaleski Sawmill
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with this one-of-a-kind experience! The lucky winner and their parents/guardians will step into the heart of the action at the Zaleski Sawmill for a special guided tour. Gear up with hard hats and goggles as you watch the sawmill come to life in full operation. But that’s not all— the winner can climb into the cab with the operator (with a parent or guardian by their side, of course) to get a front-row seat to the operation from a whole new perspective!
You can learn more about the experiences as well as project parameters and instructions on how to apply online head to ohiodnr.gov/artcontest250. The deadline to submit either artwork or a written piece is Friday, July 4. Those entering the contest must be a student enrolled in or entering grades 3 through 12 in the fall and must be an Ohio student.
