Project Aims

The three primary aims of the project are to:

· Create a network of youngsters who participate in nature protection by acting as advocates for their protected area

· Raise awareness about the natural, cultural, social and economic values of protected areas

· Promote friendship and a group ethic among youngsters by engaging them in the achievement of the common goals of European protected areas

The Junior Ranger Project - for many reasons a unique programme!

The greatest challenge facing protected areas today is to find ways of demonstrating that the conservation of nature and culture and the sustainable use of natural resources has a fundamental relevance to people's daily lives. As such, getting local communities to identify with the aims of protected areas is vital and greatly beneficial to future management.

Young people are at the heart of the local communities existing in and around protected areas. They are also their future advocates, guardians and possible employees. By providing young people with opportunities to participate in their work, protected areas can educate them to understand their aims and to appreciate the natural and cultural resources they protect. In return, the youngsters receive a wealth of rich and meaningful experiences and learn useful work skills in an outstanding natural environment close to their home. The integration of Junior Rangers provides your protected area with volunteers who are full of enthusiasm, keen on learning and who enjoy working together with your rangers. They love to be challenged by a variety of tasks such as monitoring wildlife or questioning visitors.

The potential benefits for your protected area are clear.