Aquidneck Island Nature Collaborative, with Save The Bay and Discover Newport, launches Family Passport Challenge
NEWPORT, R.I. – May 29, 2019 – The Aquidneck Island Nature Collaborative launched the 2019 Aquidneck Island Family Passport Challenge this past Memorial Day weekend. The summer-long program challenges families and individuals of all ages to explore the island and collect passport stamps from sites, events and locations along the way. Participants who complete the challenge will qualify to be entered in a raffle for a prize basket.
“Aquidneck Island is home to some of the most stunning outdoor spaces in the state,” said Save The Bay Education Specialist and Outreach Coordinator, Jess Bornstein. “Every member of AINC hopes the Family Passport Challenge will help families, residents and visitors discover the value of these natural areas and the beauty of the island.”
The free Family Passport Challenge brochure includes a map of Aquidneck Island, highlights 11 locations across the island, includes information about the sites and offers a family-friendly summer events calendar.
“The AINC’s Family Passport Challenge is an invaluable tool to guests and visitors alike, as our destination is a treasure trove of natural wonders,” said Jennifer Bailey, director of visitor services at Discover Newport, sponsoring the challenge. “If there ever was a place for people to unplug, relax and unwind, it’s here on Aquidneck Island.”
“We’re excited to be a part of this invitation to all residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of Aquidneck Island,” said Aquidneck Island Land Trust’s communications and outreach manager, Gretchen E. Markert. “ALT maintains over 12 miles of publicly-accessible trails and has conserved 2,600 acres on the island. We look forward to seeing new and familiar faces at our sites through the Aquidneck Island Family Passport Challenge this season.”
As challenge participants visit designated sites and present a program passport, they will receive unique stamps to track their progress across the island. Passports with five or more stamps can be returned to Save The Bay’s Exploration Center and Aquarium to be entered in a raffle for a prize basket filled with treasures from across the island, including a free pass to Save The Bay’s Exploration Center and Aquarium, merchandise from participating organizations and more.
The 2019 Aquidneck Island Family Passport Challenge is sponsored by Discover Newport, with Save The Bay serving as a primary partner. Additional program input was provided by the following AINC member organizations:
- Aquidneck Island Land Trust
- Fort Adams State Park
- Newport Restoration Foundation
- Norman Bird Sanctuary
- Oliver Hazard Perry
- Rose Island Lighthouse
- Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
The Aquidneck Island Nature Collaborative was formed in 2008 by Lauren Parmelee, who hoped to create a program promoting the outdoors and encouraging engagement with Aquidneck ‘s natural spaces. More information about the Aquidneck Island Nature Collaborative is available on the organization’s Facebook page at facebook.com/AINCRI. While participation in the Family Passport Program is free, some listed locations may charge a nominal entry fee. Brochures are available for pickup at listed participating locations and for download. The challenge ends October 31, 2019.
Questions about the Aquidneck Island Nature Collaborative or the Family Passport Challenge can be directed to Save The Bay’s Education Director, Bridget Prescott, at [email protected] or 401-272-3540 x137.
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About Save The Bay: Founded in 1970, Save The Bay is currently celebrating 50 years of advocacy, education, and restoration efforts in its mission to protect and improve Narragansett Bay and its watershed. An 18-month celebration marks the anniversary with special events and a capital campaign to unite the community and lay the foundation for Save The Bay’s continued work toward a fully swimmable, fishable, healthy Narragansett Bay, accessible to everyone and globally recognized as an environmental treasure.