Wildlife Forever and USDA Forest Service Strengthen National Partnership for Youth Conservation Education

White Bear Lake, MN Wildlife Forever is excited to announce a renewed partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service to expand youth education and outreach through the Art of Conservation® and Future Angler programs. This five-year national partnership will strengthen efforts to connect youth and families to conservation education, angling, and outdoor recreation.

The Art of Conservation program, which includes the popular Fish and Songbird Art Contests, engage K-12 students through creative arts and writing to local and national conservation issues. Complementary STEAM educational lesson plans help students connect art with science, sparking curiosity and a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship. The contests are free and accessible to all.

“I am grateful that the Forest Service is an agency that values youth education and outreach. Together, our programs inspire America’s youth and deliver conservation content to thousands of people each year,” said Pat Conzemius, President and CEO of Wildlife Forever.

Getting Families Fishing® is a key component of the strategy which grants free fishing equipment to community organizations hosting family friendly fishing events. The Future Angler program (formerly the Future Angler Foundation) promotes participation in recreational fishing and boating and has free content developed through the award winning Into the Outdoors television show. This new agreement builds on over 30 years of collaboration between Wildlife Forever and the Forest Service, extending outreach efforts across multiple regions and strengthening joint efforts to promote fishing and hunting on national forests, invasive species prevention, habitat restoration, and youth conservation education. 

About the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service

The Forest Service manages national forests and grasslands across the United States, providing essential services in conservation, recreation, and public land management. Through partnerships and programs, the Forest Service works to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of America’s natural resources.