Urban Nature & Conservation Discovery
Cycle through your city to discover how urban areas balance development with nature. Visit green spaces, wildlife habitats, and community gardens while learning about local conservation efforts and what makes cities more sustainable.
Jerry never had an interested in fitness. Jerry was always the unathletic kid in school and didn’t participate in formal recreation sports. When it came to choosing a Physical Recreation activity he was stumped. Jerry decided to take a shot in the dark and try cycling. Looking back Jerry says “this decision was one of the best he’s ever made.” There's an unparalleled sense of freedom, exploration, and adventure when Jerry is on the bike.
Jerry, Bronze Award HolderBuilding your Award:
Find Bronze Award examples to support activity planning
(Completed as a team. Participants will work together to plan and complete their journey.)
Example Activity: Cycling exploration of urban green spaces, community gardens, and wildlife habitats to learn about city conservation efforts.
Example Team Goal: Together we’ll cycle to at least 5 green spaces, document wildlife sightings and plant species, talk to park staff or conservationists about their work, and create a guide to urban nature spots in our city.
Example Assessor/Supervisor: Teacher, Award Leader, or conservation organization staff
Example SMART Goal: Cycling is my main mode of travel for this journey! Over 13 weeks, I’m building up to a 30 km ride by gradually increasing my weekly distance. I’ll track how my endurance and speed improve.
Example Assessor: Gym teacher, cycling club leader, or recreation center staff
Example Log: Did 12 km along the waterfront trail today. Found a nice rhythm on the flat sections and my hill climbing is getting easier. Exploring a new route through the park system next time.
Example SMART Goal: Animals fascinate me! I’m volunteering at a local farm once a week for 13 weeks to learn about animal care, feeding, habitat maintenance, and understanding animal behavior.
Example Assessor: Farm manager, agricultural program instructor, or veterinary clinic staff
Example Log: Fed the chickens and learned about their dietary needs today. The farm manager showed me how to check for signs of illness. Helping with the goats next week – they have very different personalities!
Example SMART Goal: Animals need care too! I’m volunteering an hour each week at the local animal shelter for 13 weeks – helping with feeding, cleaning, and socializing animals to prepare them for adoption.
Example Assessor: Animal shelter volunteer coordinator or shelter manager
Example Log: Walked three dogs and helped clean kennels today. A shy dog named Buddy finally wagged his tail at me after weeks of patient visits. The staff say consistent volunteers make a real difference. Helping with cat socialization next week.
