To the editor:

Kathy Barth’s article in Monday’s Go! section entitled “Lawrence parents tackle nature deficit disorder” mentions Richard Louv, author of “Last Child in the Woods.” Louv is also chairman and co-founder of the Children & Nature Network, an international organization working to connect youth to the natural world. I applaud the mothers mentioned in Ms. Barth’s article, as well as John McGrew’s “Outside for a Better Inside” task force for tackling the nature deficit disorder issue at the local level.

Louv is no stranger to Lawrence; he is a 1971 graduate of Kansas University. KU would be remiss in not honoring Louv with their highest award, the Distinguished Service Citation. This award recognizes KU alumni and friends who have demonstrated outstanding achievements “for the betterment of society and in behalf of humanity.”

Among his many honors, Louv is a 2007 recipient of the Cox Award, Clemson University’s highest honor for “sustained achievement in public service,” and the National Audubon Society presented him the 2008 Audubon Medal “for sounding the alarm about the health and societal costs of children’s isolation from the natural world — and for sparking a growing movement to remedy the problem.” It is high time this gentleman is recognized by KU at the highest level.