Charlotte Observer environmental writer Bruce Henderson used Great Smoky Mountains National Park as a case study to ponder whether today’s young people will grow up to be good stewards of the nation’s parks and natural areas. Here’s an excerpt from his cautionary tale.
“Research published last year found steady declines, compared to population growth, since the 1980s in park visits, hunting, camping and hiking in the United States, Japan and Spain. Researchers Oliver Pergams and Patricia Zaradic found ‘an ongoing and fundamental shift away from nature-based recreation.’
Children discovering nature
“That change is most striking among children.
“Kids don't play outdoors – splashing in creeks and chasing fireflies – as they once did, numerous studies and most parents will attest. Increasingly sedentary and overweight, they're more likely to be mesmerized by a Wii than a salamander.
“’Nature-deficit disorder,’” author Richard Louv called it in an influential 2005 book. Research has linked lack of unstructured time outdoors to childhood depression, anxiety and behavioral problems.
“’If they don't have those experiences, then we're worried that it won't be a priority for future generations to keep natural areas and a clean, healthy environment,’” said Lisa Tolley, who heads the N.C. Office of Environmental Education.
“Our children will become taxpayers, voters and lawmakers. But will they be lovers of parks?”