Get Out and Explore!

Conservation begins with using your senses to discover the hidden treasures within your own backyard. Explore the beauty of your natural surroundings while leading your friends and family on an outdoor adventure!     

In late fall of last year, Franklin Park Zoo’s Teen Ambassadors did just that! With backpacks full of snacks, water, extra gloves and hats; teens stepped out and into a completely different world in the wondrous wooded Blue Hills Reservation located just a short drive outside of Boston in Milton, Mass.  Each Ambassador took on the responsibility of leading the group on portions of the expedition. Leaders were challenged with everything from reading maps of the Blue Hills’ numerous trails to making sure the group persevered on the rugged uphill terrain.  As it turns out, even a trek into the wilderness only a stone’s throw away from Boston can still deliver the beauty of an unspoiled forest, complete with peaks that showcase breathtaking views of the city!  With positive attitudes, communication, and teamwork, the teens beat out the harsh cold and completed a portion of the fittingly named, Skyline Loop trail. When asked about their experience, teens heartily replied, “When can we do this again?!!”

Lili connecting with nature!

Teen Ambassadors enjoying the beauty of the Blue Hills!

CONSERVATION: WHAT DOES IT MEAN AND HOW YOU CAN HELP

Conservation – an issue that can have a broad impact to our quality of life and to the world around us.  For the past few months, members of the Youth Council at Franklin Park Zoo have been volunteering their time to find ways to best serve the Zoo’s mission to inspire people to protect and sustain the natural world for future generations by creating fun and engaging experiences that integrate wildlife and conservation programs, research, and education.

We asked our members, “What does conservation really mean to you?” and here’s what they said:

“Conservation is a vital issue - the issue of our future, and the future of our planet. If we don't take care to preserve and restore our environment now, we will be in trouble in the future.”

 – Sasa, First Year Council Member

“To me, conservation is protecting our natural resources and the animals that live there.” 

– Emma, First Year Council Member

“Conservation means protecting the planet. It means taking care of land, air, water and all living things. It means we have to pay attention and change how we do things so we don't do any more damage.”

– Adam, First Year Council Member

But is it enough to have knowledge without taking action? Youth council members think not!  To encourage everyone to move beyond the realm of information, our youth compiled a list of 10 simple action-oriented tasks, anyone can do.

1. Share the enthusiasm! Tell someone what you know and show them where they can find the tools to learn more about conservation.
2. What are you passionate about? Find an organization that supports your beliefs and find out how you can contribute.
3. Donate time, money and/or items the organization can use to fulfill their mission.
4. Volunteer.
5. Are you recycling properly? Find out what recycling programs are available in your area and play your part.
6. Pick up trash.  It’s the quickest way to beautify a neighborhood!
7. Enjoy our state and national parks with friends and family.
8. Create education pamphlets for your local church or school.
9. Fundraise for the causes you are most passionate about.
10. Create a club at school or local organization.

With a collective voice, youth are being heard and making a difference. Do your part and join the cause! Visit Zoo New England's conservation page to learn more about projects and what you can do to make a difference!

Earth Day Youth Rally and a Party for the Planet!

Party for the Planet!
Earth Day celebration, Sunday, April 21 at Franklin Park Zoo

Don’t miss the Earth Day celebration at Franklin Park Zoo! Franklin Park Zoo has teamed up with Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts and the Cambridge Science Festival to present a fun and engaging day to raise awareness for the planet and all it has to offer!

Learn how you can contribute to a healthy planet and preserve the Earth. The festivities will include opportunities to meet the zookeepers, plus animal enrichment activities, scavenger hunts, entertainment, performance by TheChorallaries of MIT and the Felix Brown Band, eco-friendly exhibitors and much more! Zoo New England’s 2013 radio partner, MAGIC 106.7, will be onsite from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with music, games and prizes.

Schedule of events:

· Meet with exhibitors – 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

· Entertainment and activities – 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

· Felix Brown Band performs – 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

· Youth Rally – 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Click here to learn about the speakers!

At the Youth Rally, sign up to find out when different conservation projects around the city are going to happen so you can be a part of the solution!