MUNISING — The National Park Foundation recently announced a record $1.2 million in grants to support Junior Ranger Angler programming across the country. Locally, the Keweenaw National Historical Park and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore have been chosen as sites for programs designed to connect youth with nature through fly fishing.

• At the Keweenaw, in partnership with the Calumet Keweenaw Sportsmens Club, this project utilizes youth fishing opportunities and education to bring together the varied communities of Michigan’s famed Copper Country through multiple fishing events across the region.

• The Junior Ranger Angler Program at Pictured Rocks is designed to teach kids and families the fundamentals of fishing while fostering a sense of stewardship for our natural resources. Through hands-on instruction at interactive pop-up tables and fishing events, participants learn basic angling skills, ethical fishing practices and the importance of protecting healthy aquatic ecosystems.