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Bear Brook State Park, June 11

This year's Great Park Pursuit kick-off was at Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown on Saturday, June 11.  From 10 am to 2 pm, teams participated in a variety of nature-driven activities that were both fun and educational. The Student Conservation Association sponsored this event as part of our collaborative educational program, Discover the Power of Parks. June 11 also marked National Get Outdoors Day, so many brought their families, friends, and passion for nature on this exciting adventure!

Guided Events

Track Detectives
Bound, leap, and waddle your way through the woods as we explore the different ways that NH wildlife gets around.  From animal walk relay races to an animal track identification hike, this experience is fun for the whole family.  You'll even take home your very own track ID cards.  Come join us near the dam for this animal tracking adventure!

Beeches, Maples, and Oaks – Oh My!
Want to be a scientist?  Meet us on the fitness trail where we’ll explore New Hampshire’s biodiversity by learning how to identify common NH trees, and then test your knowledge with a nature scavenger hunt!

Ponding
Frogs, newts, mayflies, and more… ponding at Bear Brook, it’s time to explore! “Wet” your appetite for discovery by searching for wildlife in the pond across the street using nets, magnifying glasses, and terrariums. Plan on getting your feet a little wet. That’s part of the fun!

Wild Survival
Ever wondered if you would be able to survive in the wilderness? Meet us near the pine trees across the foot bridge to test out some basic survival skills. Learn what you would need to survive in the wild, and how to build a shelter out of natural materials.  Gain practical survival skills while enjoying time with your family.

Drop-In Activities

Team Flag
Let your team spirit and creativity shine as you design a flag to represent your Great Park Pursuit team!

Pursuit/Word Scramble
Put your nature knowledge to the test with this fun, team-building word challenge.

Quest Table
Learn more about NH Biodiversity, and how to earn bonus points for your team by participating in Self-Guided Quests.

Forest Meteorology
Ever wonder how the weather affects forest ecosystems?  Join scientists from the University of Connecticut to conduct an experiment in Forest Meteorology and learn about New England Ecoregions!

About the Event Sponsor

The Student Conservation Association is America’s conservation corps, dedicated to protecting and restoring national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces across the country.  The SCA inspires young adults to become conservation pioneers through hands-on service to the environment.

Meet the SCA New Hampshire Interpretive Rangers who will be at the kick-off event to provide conservation information and interpretation to visitors.  SCA New Hampshire Information 

You may also find the SCA Interpreters at other NH State Parks this summer as part of the Discover the Power of Parks initiative, which focuses on building appreciation for the state's natural heritage through hikes, tours, and creative environmental workshops for children and families.