Wild Childhood: Inside the latest issue of the Upstate Advocate

We are proud to share with you the latest issue of the Upstate Advocate, our twice-yearly print publication. Below, read the letter from Executive Director Aldon Knight introducing this issue, which explores the importance of nature in childhood in today's digital era, in addition to sharing the latest news and information about our conservation and advocacy initiatives.

Click here to read a digital copy of the Fall/Winter 2025-2026 issue of the Upstate Advocate

Being outside benefits kids.

With the world busier, louder, and more complex than ever, young people need all the support we can give them — and they need the outdoors more than ever.

Nature provides children with grounding, calming, and educational experiences that can't be replicated elsewhere. It boosts mental and physical health, and offers opportunities for kids to develop confidence, problem-solving abilities, and focus.

That's why, in this issue of the Upstate Advocate, we highlight the ways nature benefits kids, and some efforts underway to ensure the Upstate has ample healthy natural places for outdoor learning and recreation.

UF staff recently had the opportunity to visit the SC Governor's School of Agriculture at John de la Howe. Those high school students were mature, thoughtful, and prepared — due in no small part to their constant immersion in nature and agriculture. You can read more about these unique kids and school here.

We're also pleased to feature articles about outdoor education efforts on two properties protected by UF — Conestee Nature Preserve and Bryson Children's Nature Walk. And, as a special feature, we've included some nature-based kids' activity pages for the little conservationist in your life.

Thanks to your support, Upstate Forever will continue working to protect green space, safeguard water quality, and promote sensible growth practices. Together, we can ensure a green, vibrant, and prosperous future for our children, now and forever.

Aldon Knight, Executive Director

Click here to read a digital copy of the Fall/Winter 2025-2026 issue of the Upstate Advocate