Washington, DC — Connecting kids with nature is critically important to recover wildlife, act on climate and ensure our wildlife heritage endures for generations to come, the National Wildlife Federation said today following a new report from the Outdoor Foundation that highlights an alarming drop in the number of Americans participating in outdoor recreation.

“Our kids are trading time in the natural world for time in a virtual one. If we’re going to act on climate, recover America’s wildlife, and protect our public lands for future generations, we must connect kids with the outdoors,” said National Wildlife Federation’s naturalist, David Mizejewski. “This report is a warning shot that we need to keep nature and wildlife within reach and rekindle America’s love of nature.”

The National Wildlife Federation actively works to connect children and youth with nature through its Ranger Rick publications and the Green Hour program, which encourages family members, education and childcare centers, park agencies, camps and others to spend an hour per day with kids playing and learning outdoors.