Visit Southern West Virginia partners with Departments of Education and Tourism to launch Leave No Trace initiative

Raleigh County, WV (WOAY)-A new education initiative is taking root in Raleigh County.

It aims to teach students how to care for West Virginia’s great outdoors.  

Visit Southern West Virginia, in partnership with the state’s Department of Tourism and Department of Education, has launched the Leave No Trace program for all fifth-grade students in Raleigh County elementary schools.  

The initiative instills a lasting respect for nature and introduces students to the “leave no trace” principles.  

Students will learn these principles in a fun and engaging way, through classroom visits from the leave no trace master himself, the elusive Bigfoot.  

Each student gets a sticker and a keychain listing the seven core principles, which serve as a daily reminder to keep nature clean and wildlife safe.  

The program also includes interactive lessons and hands-on activities, introducing students to career paths in West Virginia’s growing tourism industry.  

To learn more or to schedule a classroom visit, educators can email jess@visitwv.Com or call (304)252-2244.