Get to know your wild neighbors!

“Whether it's a camping trip, visiting the zoo, a park or hiking a trail, the Get to Know program and contest encourages youth to connect with nature and use their creative talents by writing, photographing or illustrating their outdoor experiences.” ~ Regional Forester Randy Moore

Robert Bateman's illustation of kids outdoors. More Bateman art »

The Forest Service is proud to partner with world renowned artist Robert Bateman's "Get to Know" (Your Wild Neighbors) program and calendar contest. Since 2000, the Canadian–based contest has featured the art work, photos and writing that demonstrates the impact nature has on youth.

In a letter to Mr. Bateman, former Forest Service Chief Kimbell wrote,

“Across the agency, we are engaged in programs and partnerships to help connect children with nature — to get ‘kids in the woods.’ Yet, we must do more. Our partnership with the Get to Know program is a critical component of our efforts.”

This is the first year the Get to Know (G2K) program was introduced in the United States, with its California launch on National Get Outdoors Day, June 13, 2009. Several forests are hosting outdoor events that will also include G2K activities for kids.

About the Calendar Contest

The G2K program centers around a calendar contest which allows contestants 18–years and younger to submit art work, photography or writings about their outdoor experiences. Once submitted, the art work will be reviewed by a panel of judges. The selected contestant's art work will be honored by being published in the 2011 "Get to Know" Calendar.

The Calendar Contest formally kicks off on National Public Lands Day, September 26, 2009 and will run through November 30, 2009. Contest winners will be announced on National Get Outdoors Day, June 12, 2010.