Journey of discovery
The John Muir Trust set up the award in 1997 to get more people active in the conservation movement. It operates largely through a varied range of organisations, including schools and outdoor centres, as well as youth and community groups – over 700 made use of it last year. But many individuals, families and small independent groups also take part. They’re invited to follow in the footsteps of John Muir
(1838–1914), with his life-long journey of discovery and exploration to help conserve the special qualities of wild places. Muir was born in Dunbar, East Lothian, and went on to become the founder of the US national parks. He is widely regarded as the father of modern conservation. Throughout his life, Muir shared his experiences, feelings and vision for wild places with a wider audience, so the award participants are encouraged to do likewise. John Hutchison is chairman of the John Muir Trust and
believes the award is great at character forming for young people. “The experience it provides is very important for the self-discovery that leads to self-confidence. “100,000 awards is a huge milestone to celebrate in
such a short time. The John Muir Award is firmly part of the core work of the trust’s new vision for wild land. I believe that, through the award, we’re finding and nurturing the next generation of environmental community activists.”
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“The John Muir Award puts a different slant on everything. It brings out the wonder and beauty of being in nature. It’s a beautiful way of working with kids and encourages them to look at the bigger picture.”
Sarah Robertshaw, Forestry Commission project leader
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Recipient of the 100,000th award was Jake Atkinson (far left).
12 The Nature of Scotland
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