Smithtown resident, River Scuderi, is competing in Colossal’s nationwide Jr. Ranger Competition, a campaign supporting the National Wildlife Federation. The competition, open to children ages 4 to 12, aims to encourage children to explore the outdoors and protect wildlife. The winner will receive $20,000, a feature in Ranger Rick magazine, and a wildlife experience with conservationist and TV host Jeff Corwin. River entered the competition after submitting a video of himself exploring Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown, where his grandmother, Denise, said he has grown up learning about wildlife and engaging in rescue and rehabilitation programs. As of Thursday, River was ranked second in his group and advancing towards the final rounds of voting. If he wins, Denise plans to use this opportunity to contribute back to the nature center where her family has discovered parks, museums and environmental programs.