Voting ends June 5

(METAMORA, Ind.) – Several local kids are needing community votes as they are part of a nationwide contest to become the next National Jr. Ranger. 

The winning person will appear in a Ranger Rick magazine, learn from wildlife expert and television personality Jeff Corwin and also receive $20,000. 

Vote any of the four following candidates by 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 5. 

Here are the local kids and a link to vote:

August (Metamora) 

In Metamora, 10-year-old August Dwyer is among the outdoor enthusiasts hoping to win the big contest. 

“It is an adventure to find things in nature I haven’t seen before. The adventure of taking a new hiking trail is something I love,” he said. 

Learn more and vote for August by clicking here. 

Ezekiel (Greensburg) 

The fifth grader loves nature, exploring and learning things about survival skills. He has also  learned a lot from his grandpa. 

“His favorite outdoor activities are whittling sticks, playing with his dog, and setting up his tent,” his mom said. 

Learn more and vote for Ezekiel by clicking here.

Monroe (Batesville) 

From climbing trees, catching frogs and naming cicadas, Monroe loves all things outdoors. 

The Batesville Primary student also gets hands-on experience as a relative of hers is a wildlife rehabilitator with the Department of Natural Resources. She has been able to witness fawns and squirrels as they are rehabilitated. 

Some other hobbies include planting flowers, working in the garden, digging dirt, listening to peepers and walking her three dogs. 

Learn more and vote for Monroe by clicking here. 

Haley (Connersville) 

The 9-year-old has been dedicated to wildlife for a longtime. She first appeared on The 812 in 2021 when she was raising money for the Australia Zoo. 

Her passion for the outdoors has grown over the years and she even volunteers at a bird sanctuary in Connersville.

“My favorite outdoor activity is doing Saw-whet owl banding at the bird sanctuary. We set up nets, check for/band owls. We document gender, age, and many other factors to help with research,” she said.

Learn more and vote for Haley by clicking here.