Wilderness Inquiry seeks funding to connect 12500 Minnesota youth to outdoor education

A recent meeting of the Minnesota Senate's Committee on Environment, Climate, and Legacy highlighted a significant initiative aimed at connecting youth and families to the great outdoors. Wilderness Inquiry, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inclusive outdoor education, is seeking legacy funding to expand its programs, which have already engaged over 120,000 Minnesota youth since 2015. The proposed funding would allow an additional 12,500 individuals from across the state to participate in hands-on outdoor activities that celebrate Minnesota's rich history and cultural heritage.

Senator McEwen, the lead author of the bill, expressed personal pride in supporting this initiative, sharing his own experiences with outdoor learning through his children's education. He emphasized the importance of place-based learning in fostering a connection to Minnesota's natural environment and cultural history.

Tracy Larson, the education program manager at Wilderness Inquiry, detailed the organization's commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to engage with nature. She noted that last year alone, over 41,000 people participated in various outdoor activities, including canoeing and camping, facilitated by Wilderness Inquiry. Larson highlighted the Canoemobile program, which offers a range of experiences from introductory day trips to family camping excursions in state parks.

Justin Shifler, a teacher from Sauk Rapids Rice School District, shared his firsthand observations of how the Canoemobile program has positively impacted his students. Many of his students, who come from backgrounds with limited access to outdoor activities, experienced canoeing for the first time through this initiative. Shifler emphasized the importance of connecting students to their local environment, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in Minnesota's natural resources.

Erica Rivers, Executive Director of Wilderness Inquiry, reinforced the organization's commitment to responsible funding practices, noting that they match every dollar of legacy funding with three dollars from private sources. She underscored the broader economic implications of investing in outdoor education, linking it to Minnesota's thriving outdoor recreation economy.

The committee members expressed their support for the initiative, recognizing the need to provide outdoor opportunities for all Minnesota youth, particularly those in urban areas who may lack access to nature. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to nurturing the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and stewards of Minnesota's environment. As the committee moves forward, the proposed funding aims to enrich the lives of thousands of families, ensuring that the state's natural heritage is preserved and appreciated for years to come.