Governmental, Natural Resources

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources had a concern that young Minnesotans were not getting outside and enjoying the wonders of Minnesota state parks and our natural resources. To acquaint them with outdoor activities that they may not be familiar with, the DNR contracted with Rivertown Communications to develop a visually fun and educational website to introduce young viewers to topics such as outdoor photography, what Minnesota animals and fish eat, and how to explore, and enjoy Minnesota Parks.

To develop the content, we contracted with noted children’s author Tracy Mauer, who reached the young audience on their level. We also interviewed and videotaped state park rangers speaking directly to the kids. Richard Louv’s bestseller “Last Child in the Woods - Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder” served as inspiration for a project.

The mission of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is to work with Minnesotans to conserve and manage the state's natural resources, to provide outdoor recreation opportunities, and to provide for commercial uses of natural resources in a way that creates a sustainable quality of life.

The audience for this project is school-age children (5-11) and their parents. To hold their attention we created a colorful, animated world were learning about nature is fun.

The young viewers of this website went away with a new appreciation of the fun and adventure that awaits just outside the front door. Comments, and the interactions with state park personnel motivated by this website have been universally positive.

“Rivertown communications designed some great games and activities, all with the goal of engaging and educating kids on their computers but then ultimately getting to turn them to turn the computer off and get their families to take them to explore a state park or state trail. Thank you for everything Robb!”

Stephanie Otterson
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Project Manager