Local boy competing in national Jr. Ranger program

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Eleven-year-old Brycen White's love of nature could result in $20,000 for college, thanks to the Jr. Ranger program, hosted by TV host and biologist Jeff Corwin.

Brycen and his mother, Becky, live near Helena, and Brycen's sister entered him in the nationwide contest that emphasizes a love of nature and conservation.

Brycen said his mom got pictures of him doing what he loves to do in his spare time: watching animals in the wild.

"I've always liked wildlife," Brycen said. "I like catching stuff and releasing them. I haven't ever caught a fish without releasing it, and I don't ever hurt anything, either."

The photo that got the attention of the contest judges is Brycen standing with a wild turkey.

His mom, Becky, also took a photo of him looking out at a scenic view at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah.

She said she grew up around nature in Kansas and has tried to pass on her love and respect for nature to Brycen and his siblings.

"I believe it's important to spend time outdoors enjoying nature and learning about things in nature," Becky said. "I also remind my kids to leave a site nicer than when you entered it."

She added, the Jr. Ranger program is ideal for Brycen, since he spends more time outside than around electronics, another value she has tried to instill.

"He's always out there catching something -- birds, fish, turtles -- anything that he can grab," Becky said. "He really enjoys his time outside."

Brycen said he is excited about the possibilities of winning the contest. Several rounds of voting culminate in a final round that runs from July 18-24.

"They want you to help wildlife," Brycen said. "And the $20,000 would help with college."

He added, the winner also appears in the Ranger Rick magazine and has the opportunity to meet Jeff Corwin.

For Brycen, though, the contest goes along with his larger goals, which include working in nature as a ranger or a conservation agent in the future.

Voting is open for the Jr. Ranger program at jr-ranger.org.