(Plymouth, Minn.) — A recent issue of Minnesota Outdoor News featured the profile of Eliza Sankovitz, a youth who at the young age of 12, already has recognized the importance of water quality. Through her 4-H project titled “How Clear is Clear Lake,” Sankovitz’ research into the pollutants entering this Waseca-area lake earned her the honor of being named the October Outdoor Youth of the Month by Clam Outdoors and Outdoor News. Additionally, the 7th-grader’s conservation efforts were recognized by the Minnesota DNR through the annual 4-H award that was presented to Sankovitz during the 2016 Minnesota State Fair.
The Outdoor News feature, found on Page 22 of the Oct.14 issue, highlights Sankovitz’ involvement in FFA and 4-H, and her interest in archery that she attributed to a visit to the Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro, Minn., that offered her the opportunity to try her hand at the sport.
The Outdoor Youth of the Month program is a partnership between Outdoor News and Clam Outdoors to recognize Minnesota youth in grades 7-12 whom the public have nominated thanks to their demonstrated leadership or excellence in the outdoor pursuits including: habitat restoration efforts, archery, the shooting sports, or mentored fishing and hunting programs. Both businesses encourage the public to nominate Minnesota young people for the Youth of the Month. Staff from Outdoor News and Clam Outdoors selected Sankovitz for the award.
As the director of marketing for Clam Outdoors, Dan Stefanich said, “Clam Outdoors is dedicated to fostering a passion for the outdoors, and there is no better way to do that than to engage our youth. By bringing attention to the kids and organizations that are doing the right things, Clam Outdoors feels that we will help preserve and enhance our outdoor heritage. Through a variety of incredible stories, we want to highlight as well as celebrate the amazing accomplishments of kids in the outdoors. This program is designed to inspire youngsters to continue to get involved and take their outdoor activities to the next level. We are excited to partner with Outdoor News to bring attention to the kids who are the true sportsmen and women of the future.”
In addition to a feature published in Minnesota Outdoor News, the youth of the month recipient also receives a prize package including $250 in merchandise and a $250 cash award from Clam Outdoors and a plaque from Outdoor News. Additionally, the organization that the youth designates as having played a significant role in their development in the outdoor pursuits will also receive a $250 cash award from Clam. Sankovitz, who serves as a 4-H ambassador and club youth leader, has selected the Waseca County 4-H to receive the cash honorarium.
For a nomination form and complete information on the Outdoor Youth of the Month program, visit www.OutdoorNews.com/YouthofMonth.
For more information on Minnesota-based Clam Outdoors: http://clamoutdoors.com/community/about-us/
