4-H TEEN CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE
Harlow, E.1; Haupt, K.2; Eubanks, E.3; Figart, L.4; Chasteen, J.5; Bania, C.61Residential and Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent, University of Florida/IFAS Extension Columbia County, Lake City, FL, 32055
24-H Youth Development Extension Agent, University of Florida/IFAS Extension Duval County, Jacksonville, FL, 32254
34-H Volunteer, University of Florida/IFAS Extension Alachua County, Gainesville, FL, 32611
4Urban Forestry Extension Agent, University of Florida/IFAS Extension Duval County, Jacksonville, FL, 32254
54-H Program Assistant, University of Florida/IFAS Extension Columbia County, Lake City, FL, 32055
6Urban Entomology Outreach Coordinator, , University of Florida Entomology and Nematology Department, Gainesville, FL, 32611
Abstract:
The 4-H Teen Conservation Experience provided an opportunity for 4-H youth who have a passion and love for entomology, natural resources, and environmental 4-H projects to expand their knowledge for why conservation is vital. 4-H Teen Conservation Experience was held in Jekyll Island at Georgia 4-H Camp Jekyll. Nine teens, ages 14-18, who had previously participated in Florida 4-H entomology-related projects were invited to attend from across north Florida. The three-day overnight experience exposed the teens to careers in conservation, on-going research, and local ecology. The weekend included a trip to CoastFest, a local conservation festival, collecting insects, salt marsh and island beach ecology lessons, and tracking rattlesnakes through the marsh while learning about the ecosystem and the importance of field research. The Florida 4-H teens who have participated in environmental education projects for multiple years and came together for the inaugural “4-H Teen Conservation Experience” weekend are working to create an state-wide Conservation Corps. This board will work together to focus the curriculum development, conservation implementation, and service project expansion. The teens had the chance to meet with conservation specialists, educators, and researchers to learn about their roles in conservation and environmental education. The teens left with lifelong friends and a new appreciation and understanding of the different forms and levels of conservation and how important it is for the future.