More funds for 'More Kids in the Woods'

Yesterday, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said USDA's Forest Service will contribute $500,000 this year to the "More Kids in the Woods" program for projects that promote outdoor activities.

"If we are going to put an end to childhood obesity, we must promote healthy, active lifestyles and encourage our kids to get off the couch and go outside," said Vilsack. "Our 'More Kids in the Woods' challenge not only promotes physical activity, it fosters environmental awareness and stewardship among young people as we face critical environmental challenges, such as the effects of climate change. 'More Kids in the Woods' helps kids make the connection between healthy forests, healthy communities and their own healthy lifestyles."

The contribution will join $1.5 million in donations and in-kind services from partners. The Forest Service selected 21 projects for funding from more than 130 proposals. All projects focus on curating curiosity about nature and the role of forests and grasslands in providing clean water, clean air and wildlife habitat.

Among the 21 projects, one deals specifically with birds. Kids Take Flight Educational Program at White River National Forest & Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory in Glenwood Springs, Colo., will provide 500 children, ages 6 to 12, with hands-on experiences like releasing rosy-finches, experiencing dragonfly metamorphosis and investigating owls.