By: Najla Alexander
Middlesex County officials announced the launch of its new Junior Rangers program—a free, interactive initiative that encourages children and families to explore the County’s vibrant parks and open spaces through hands-on learning and outdoor adventures.
This new community program follows the success of the Bark Rangers program with the same goal of showcasing the unique beauty, nature, and wildlife of Middlesex County, officials say. 
According to MCPO officials, the program is recommended for kids aged 4-10. The program introduces participants to local wildlife, environmental stewardship, and more through a variety of fun, self-guided activities.
After completing five of the activities listed in the Junior Rangers activity booklet, participants will receive a limited-edition Junior Rangers puzzle, officials said. The contest, including a physical activity booklet and prize, is open to Middlesex County residents only, while supplies last.
“Middlesex County is proud to foster a love of the outdoors and a sense of environmental responsibility in our youngest residents,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios.
“The Junior Rangers program offers a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about the world around them while enjoying all that our parks have to offer.”
“This program is more than just outdoor fun—it’s a way to build lifelong habits of health, exploration, and respect for the environment,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro, Chair of the County’s Infrastructure Management Committee.
“Thank you to our Parks and Recreation team for continuing to make our parks safe, accessible, and educational for everyone.”
How to Become a Middlesex County Junior Ranger:
-Get the Activity Booklet: Residents can request a physical activity booklet to be mailed to them at DiscoverMiddlesex.com/JuniorRangers, or download a PDF version.
-Explore and Learn: Activities include wildlife observation, litter clean-ups, outdoor games, and more—all designed to promote environmental education and family fun.
-Complete Five Activities: Finish any five of the listed activities and document your progress as instructed in the booklet.
-Submit Proof of Completion: Use the online form at DiscoverMiddlesex.com/JuniorRangers to submit proof and receive your limited-edition Junior Rangers puzzle.
-Celebrate Your Achievement: Join the @MiddlesexCountyJuniorRangers Facebook group to share your discoveries and see what other Junior Rangers are up to.
Middlesex County officials said the program is open to Middlesex County residents only for prize eligibility. Non-residents are welcome to participate by downloading a PDF version of the activity booklet, but they will not be eligible to win the prize.
For complete program details, guidelines, and submission instructions, visit DiscoverMiddlesex.com/JuniorRangers. And check out Middlesex County’s Bark Rangers program, a unique initiative that invites residents and their four-legged companions to discover the County through a series of fun, dog-friendly activities, according to MCPO officials.
For more information about Bark Rangers, visit DiscoverMiddlesex.com/BarkRangers. To learn more about Middlesex County’s parks and open spaces, visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov/parksandrec.