App offers new way to play in Porterville parks

Do mobile gaming and exploring the parks sound like mutually exclusive activities? Not anymore!

Porterville Parks & Leisure Services has partnered with educational technology platform Agents of Discovery to launch a free app during the month of July.

The app is similar to Pokémon GO, but kids learn about site-specific resources like local parks and trails.

Agents of Discovery’s augmented reality (AR) technology is a powerful tool that incentivizes kids to learn while outside and exploring the world around them.

Armed with a tablet, android or iphone, kids assume the exciting role of a secret agent, completing a ‘mission’ created by the expert park service members. Completing the missions can earn you prizes.

This is a state-wide initiative put on by California Park & Recreation Society with 28 of their organizations participating, including Porterville. All sites are launching in July as part of the Parks Make Life Better month-long campaign, and the app will be available for free until July 31.

For more information contact Parks and Leisure Services at (559) 782-7536, visit www.ci.porterville.ca.us or follow them on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for all the latest updates.