Welcome to the first Nature Connections Newsletter!  My goal is to make this a viable, relevant and fun way to update and look forward to seeing it in your inbox. (Critiques & suggestions needed)

   See some the new improvements and articles on the following sites: Children & Nature Network & Nature Rocks!

   The No Child Left Inside movement has made great leaps and bounds as it makes its way into the international media spotlight. The White House, Senate & Congress are also beginning to acknowledge, endorse and support the efforts.

   The fastest growing segment in the NCLI movement is, Nature Clubs for Families. Start a local group in your community!

   Please remember to support DCNR in these trying times. Our neighbors in DCNR care about the health of your children and the natural resources of PA. They have many, excellent programs. Check out DCNR's new site, Explore PA trails. The next time you see a DCNR member, say "thanks!"; they need our support in these times.

   You, as an individual, can make a difference for the future of PA. Stay informed and speak out! The PA Forest Coalition does an outstanding job at keeping you up-to-date on the hottest issues. I highly recommend subscribing to their mailing list.  Another great source of powerful information is the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's, Bay Daily News.

   Protect the future of your favorite outdoor area, activity, hobby or sport. Becoming an online activist DOES make a difference. Contact me for sites tailored to your passions.

   What did I do this year?

   In July, I spent several days living on plants of the Appalachian Trial. I said living, not surviving. Some of the weeds & trees we walk by every day are full of delicious taste and even more nutrition than most vegetables.

  Primitive skills and Native American traditions will also teach us how to live comfortably in (and in harmony with) the PA forests. I find this knowledge empowering and serious fun! Contact me if you would like more information about online, free, education.

Thank you for the continued feedback and submissions. We will continue adding to the features that you already find useful. I am also considering using different graphics so your page loads faster. Keep sending in those ideas and links.

Now go! Get outside!

--Rob Garman, Nature Connections