Abby Haight of the Oregonian writes that the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge “put education and children first when it opened to the public two years ago.  Teachers attend workshops to learn how to use the refuge, then are encouraged to take their students to explore and experiment.”

“We’re just starting to develop programs for the classroom because, really, we want the kids outside,” said Kim Strassburg, visitor services manager for the refuge.

Haight continues, “One hot summer day, a crew of teenage boys sentenced to community service arrived to plant trees.  At first disdainful, then curious, the boys grew rapt as Strassburg described how the rough-skinned newt - one of boys had just moved a newt to water - was one of the most toxic animals in the world but that garter snakes ate them with gusto.

“At the end of the day, one of the boys pulled Stassburg aside.  ‘I want to come back here when I’m done.  I feel really good here.”

What is unique about the Tualatin Refuge is that it sits in an urban setting.  Although 1,358 acres of wildness - it provides wetland, riparian, and upland habitat for a variety of migratory birds, threatened and endangered species, fish, and other resident wildlife.  The refuge is home to some 200 species of birds, over 50 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles and amphibians, plus a wide variety of insects, fish, and plants - it is possible to convert green urban areas - even right off a busy highway - into marvelous natural environments for our children.

Haight says that Louv is adamant that “Adults must do more to engage children with nature.  Parents, spiritual organizations and educators can make the outdoors safe for children to explore.  Groups that have focused on fundraising for environmental issues need to turn more of their energy to fostering the next generation of stewards.

“Because if children aren’t given the chance to love and understand nature, who will take care of nature in the future?  If we don’t turn this around, nature will be carried in a briefcase, not in the heart.”