Extension
It Starts With Us
Natural Resources
Empowering youth to reach their full potential
Amanda Sublett
Agriculture & Natural Resources
Today’s youth spend less time outdoors than previous generations (Clemonts, 2004; Karsten, 2005; Carver et al., 2008) and are likely able to identify a Pokémon character more easily than a native plant or animal (Balmford et al., 2002). Every five years (since 1999) the Kentucky Environmental Education Council (KEEC) conducts a survey to assess Kentuckian’s environmental knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. According to KEEC’s 2015-2020 Environmental Education Master Plan (2015), “…the average Kentuckian is able to answer correctly slightly more than half of the environmental knowledge questions included on the survey. This result leaves ample room for improvement” (p 27). The Kentucky 4-H Youth Development Program strives to increase environmental literacy among youth in Kentucky. The KEEC (2018) defines environmental literacy as “…the ability to recognize the components of healthy natural and man-made systems and the actions necessary to maintain, restore, or improve them” (p. 4) and states that environmental education is a pathway to environmental literacy (KEEC, 2018). Kentucky Statute (KRS 157.905) defines environmental education as “…an education process dealing with the interrelationships among the natural world and its man-made surroundings; is experience-based; interdisciplinary in its approach; and is a continuous life-long process that provides the citizenry with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to individually and collectively encourage positive actions for achieving and maintaining a sustainable balance between man and the environment” (Kentucky Legislative Research Committee, 2020, p.1). Kentucky 4-H provides environmental education opportunities by engaging youth in hands-on, interdisciplinary educational experiences that foster an increased understanding and appreciation for natural resources and environmental sciences. Programs and projects are offered in the areas of environmental science, entomology, forestry and wood science, geology, soils, water, wildlife, and shooting sports.
Youth will be environmentally literate.
Youth will make informed decisions and take responsible action regarding natural resources conservation, protection, and restoration.
Youth will be advocates for environmental sustainability and stewardship.
Youth will explain the importance and role of natural resources in daily life.
Youth will adopt practices to conserve and protect natural resources.
Youth will utilize and practice life-skills in 4-H natural resources and environmental projects and clubs, and life situations.
Youth will gain knowledge and skills in environmental sciences and natural resources content.
Youth will gain an understanding of environmental sustainability and stewardship.
Youth will develop valuable life-skills, including decision-making, critical thinking, communications, record-keeping, wise use of resources, and leadership.
Initial Outcome:
Outcome to be Evaluated
Youth plan and implement a natural resource project (e.g., entomology project, forestry project, etc.).
Indicator of Success for Outcome
Youth complete a natural resource project.
Method of Evaluation
4-H Common Measures Experience Survey
Program Indicators
Number of youth who demonstrated a skill that was learned or improved by participating in 4-H natural resource programming (PRACTICE)
Number of youth who used the skills and knowledge learned in 4-H to conserve natural resources (PRACTICE)
Number of youth who have gained an understanding of ecosystems in Kentucky (KOSA)
Number of youth who indicated “yes or usually” to the Common Measures Experience Survey Question #6 “Is 4-H A place where you get to figure out things for yourself?” (SEEC)
Number of youth who indicated “yes or usually” to the Common Measures Experience Survey Question #13 “Is 4-H a place where you have a chance to be a leader?” (SEEC)
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Audience: Youth ages 9-18
Project or Activity: Shooting Sports
Content or Curriculum: State Shooting Sports Curriculum
Inputs: Volunteer Adult and Youth Leaders, Parents
Date: November 2023 - October 2024
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