Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, in collaboration with the Arkansas Department of Education, the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, and the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage & Tourism, has launched the "My Natural State Story" contest. This initiative invites students across Arkansas to engage with the outdoors, experience the state's natural beauty, and share their personal stories.
Governor Sanders emphasized the importance of this program, stating, "Arkansas is blessed with some of the greatest natural areas and opportunities for outdoor recreation anywhere in the country, which I want every kid in our state to experience firsthand." She added that the contest aims to get "kids off screens and outdoors and using the power of storytelling to inspire the next generation." First Gentleman Bryan Sanders echoed this sentiment, highlighting the goal to inspire "the next generation of conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts."
Students can submit essays up to 500 words, with AI-generated text strictly prohibited. The contest features seven categories: hunting, fishing, boating or paddling, climbing, cycling or mountain biking, camping, and hiking. Submissions should detail the experience's location, activities, and personal significance. There are two age groups: 10-13 and 14-17.
One winner will be chosen from each category within each age group, totaling 14 activity winners. Additionally, one student from each age group will receive the "My Natural State Story of the Year" award, bringing the total to 16 student honorees. These winners will receive prizes donated by Arkansas-based outdoor brands and be invited to a dinner at the governor's mansion.
The contest builds on Governor Sanders' broader efforts to expand Arkansas' outdoor economy and provide more outdoor opportunities for young residents. Tourism, the state's second-largest industry, saw a record 54.3 million visitors last year, generating over $10 billion and supporting nearly 72,000 jobs. This initiative, alongside the Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative and the Natural State Initiative, aims to solidify Arkansas as a premier outdoor recreation destination.