Published: June 11, 2009 10:18 pm      

June declared Great Outdoors Month

WASHINGTON - June is an especially good time to trade screen time for green time, and get outside with family and friends. For several years the President and most Governors have issued annual proclamations declaring June as Great Outdoors Month. On Monday, President Obama released his 2009 proclamation for Great Outdoors Month.

This month, children and their families can enjoy the benefits of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, cycling, or hiking, and the National Wildlife Federation offers resources to help plan an afternoon at the park or a weekend in the mountains. The new online database NatureFind shows how easy it is to find green spaces wherever you are, and users can access maps with directions to parks, zoos, wildlife refuges, hiking trails and more--powered by your own zip code. Visit NWF.org.naturefind to begin planning your Outdoors Month adventure.

Kevin Coyle, Vice President for Education and Training at National Wildlife Federation, said:

"President Obama's proclamation of June as Great Outdoors Month recognizes the many benefits of connecting children with the outdoors and provides opportunities for them to learn about and explore the wonders of the natural world. Families who get outside in June--or any time of year-enjoy health benefits and quality time bonding with one another."

The month-long celebration includes National Get Outdoors Day on June 13 and wraps up with the National Wildlife Federation's Great American Backyard Campout on June 27.