Adventure Challenge wins Rep. Ryan Zinke’s 2024 Congressional App Challenge in Montana’s First District

When asked what inspired the creation of Adventure Challenge, the students said, “Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks wanted an app that would help get kids outdoors. Through our research and in working with MTFWP, we found that kids are spending 65% more and more time inside now, and taking less time to enjoy, appreciate and take care of their surroundings. Technology will always be an integral part of these children’s lives, but what if we use technology in a way to help get kids outdoors? It also takes 60 days to build a habit and in order to keep outdoor activity a habit in kids lives, our app encourages use by keeping a streak for all 60 activities.

Working with the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks employees, we participated in numerous meetings with Western Conservation Leadership representatives from six states to create an app that would meet their individual state needs while also addressing their common problem. The Western Conservation Leadership Development Program has the foremost experts in wildlife education from all around the northwest US. They wanted an app that helps keep children interested and engaged in nature and wildlife, but they had very little technology experience.

Additionally, each state had specific needs that they wanted to put into an app. We met with their group, creating requirements, shaping the scope of the project, revising our ideas based on the technology limitations, and providing progress updates. Once we were able to define the scope and technical aspects of the project, they specified several functions to be included, such as a Learn feature as well as a freeze streak feature. We have lived in Montana for many years growing up and we love spending time outdoors. Montana Fish Wildlife helped us create an app that helps others get outdoors and appreciate nature.”