An exciting new challenge in the state will help to connect Wyoming children and families with outdoor recreation in the state.

The WY Outside Challenge provides participants with an opportunity to complete a wide variety of outdoor activities throughout 2015, then document and submit their accomplishments on a scorecard and with photos.

To participate in the 2015 WY Outside Challenge, Wyoming youth can visit www.wyoutside.com and download the official scorecard. Scorecards are available online now and will also be distributed at a variety of WY Outside endorsed events throughout the year.

The event is supported by multiple state leaders, including Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jillian Balow.

"As a mom I can't wait to get my kids involved in the WY Outside Challenge so they can come to love the Wyoming outdoors I grew up in. It's a win-­win for parents and kids to spend time together learning about all that is in our own backyard and across our great state," says Balow.

The scorecard contains WY Outside Challenge activities such as hiking, camping, sleeping under the stars, catching a fish, going snowshoeing, and climbing a tree. Points are awarded for each activity and participants keep track of their own score, taking a photo of each challenge.

All entries for the 2015 Challenge are due on January 15, 2016.

All photos and scorecards should be submitted to the WY Outside Administrative Coordinator.

Every participant who obtains 200 points will receive a certificate proclaiming them a “WY Outside Challenge Master,” signed by Governor Matt Mead and Superintendent Balow. They will then be entered in a drawing to receive additional outdoor­ themed prizes.

WY Outside will be using their website and various social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to highlight the progress of those who participate in the outdoor Challenge. Photos can also be shared on social media using the hashtag #wyoutsidechallenge.

WY Outside is a coalition of various state and government agencies as well as small businesses and nonprofit organizations whose goal is to connect Wyoming children and families with the outdoors.

For more information about WY Outside or the 2015 Challenge please contact WY Outside Administrative Coordinator, Ashley Rooney, at 307­-777­-6560 or email ashley.rooney@wyo.gov.

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