BDN covers UMaine’s efforts to be named ‘Most Outdoorsy’ school
The Bangor Daily News reported the University of Maine is competing for the title of “Most Outdoorsy” school in the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education Campus Challenge. Students, faculty, alumni and community members can take part in the challenge that runs through Oct. 13. “The average person is spending eight hours or more in front of a screen every day and only spending a few minutes in the outdoors,” said Chris Bartram, assistant director for Maine Bound Adventure Center at UMaine. “This is really a way of getting people outside, teaching them better habits, teaching them how to recreate.” An app allows participants to share photos and words of encouragement, and see how other universities are doing in real time. Sept. 23, UMaine was in second place for Division I schools, just below Texas Woman’s University. To participate, download the app, select UMaine and log your outdoor activities, which can range from stargazing to rock climbing. To log an activity, the app asks participants to take a photo and describe the activity. UMaine kicked off the competition with a zip line, giant swing and portable climbing tower. Saturday, a few hundred people took part in a paddle fest on the Stillwater River. Upcoming events include a night 5K run with headlamps, a petting zoo, cat yoga, and a presentation by outdoor educator Abby Rowe. To learn more and to download the app, visit umaine.edu/mainebound/programs/occc.