Extension
It Starts With Us
4-H Natural Resources in Kenton County
4-H Natural Resources
Kelley
Agriculture
People, animals and plants are dependent on our Earth’s natural resources. Everything from the air we breathe, to the water we drink, to the soil we use for food production – these resources are vital to our existence. Therefore, it is important that we care for and respect these resources. Understanding how our daily choices affect our environment, we can conserve natural resources and protect our environment for present and future generations.
Kenton County is a diverse county that is 55% urban and 45% rural in character. Emphasis on protection of natural resources is part of school curriculum and the general population.
2017-2018 Plan of Work advisory groups including 4-H Council, Expansion and Review committee, Issues collection of data via surveys, and CEC have identified the need to present natural resource education.
• Youth will use scientific techniques, responsible practices and innovative technologies that will positively sustain the natural resources in the home, community and world.
• Youth will engage in community projects related to natural resource conservation.
• Youth will become aware of the need to manage and preserve the natural resources in Kenton County and will become better stewards of natural resources on their property.
• Increased awareness of social concerns that could be addressed by practicing stewardship of natural resources.
• Youth will make decisions in their daily lives that positively impact natural resources.
• Youth will adopt practices to conserve and protect the environment in their home and community.
• Youth will use problem solving and logical reasoning skill and apply them to environmental issues.
• Youth and volunteers will implement best management practices and participate in classes and programs offered by extension service. Youth will understand factors involved in plant growth and seed development. Youth will identify parts of soil.
• Youth will understand how water affects the surface of the earth.
• Youth will develop an interest in environmental sciences and sustainable practices and technologies
• Youth will gain knowledge of the interrelationship and interdependencies within an ecosystem.
• Youth will identify the natural resources that are used within their home and community.
• Youth will become aware of living versus non-living things.
Long-term Outcome: Youth and volunteers will implement practices
Indicator: Participation in class and follow-up surveys
Method: Surveys written, farm visits and calls
Timeline: 6 months to one year.
Intermediate Outcome: Youth and adults will know what materials to recycle and how to recycle them. Number of youth reporting participation in community service related to environment and sustainable projects
Indicator: Youth and adults will be able to identify recyclable materials and local recycling centers.
Method: Pre/Post Tests
Timeline: September 2019 – June 2020
Initial Outcome: Youth and adults will learn why it is important to be concerned about environmental issues.
Indicator: Youth and adults will be able to explain how loss of habitat, both air and water pollution, and a reduction in natural resources affects people and their ability to survive. Number of youth reporting an interest in natural resource day camps. Number of entries for 4-H YD in Natural Resources projects that increased at County Fair
Method: Pre/Post Tests
Timeline: September 2019 – June 2020
Audience: Kenton County Youth
Activity: School audience programs
Content or Curriculum: Project W.I.L.D., Project W.I.L.D. Aquatic, Project Learning Tree
Inputs: 4-H Natural Resources Curriculum, Kentucky Natural Resources Curriculum
Date: September 2019 thru May 2020
Audience: Kenton County Youth
Activity: Natural Resource Educational programs
Content or Curriculum: 4-H Entomology, Project W.I.L.D., Project W.I.L.D. Aquatic, Project Learning Tree, 4-H Natural Resources
Inputs: 4-H Natural Resources Curriculum, Kentucky Natural Resources Curriculum, UK entomology specialist,
Date: May – August 2020
Audience: Kenton County Youth
Activity: Container Creations
Content or Curriculum: 4-H Garden materials
Inputs: 4-H Natural Resources, Project Food, Land & People Resources,
Date: Spring 2020
Audience: Kenton County Youth
Activity: 4-H Birds, Bees and Bugs
Content or Curriculum: 4-H Entomology
Inputs: 4-H Natural Resources Curriculum, Kentucky Natural Resources Curriculum, UK entomology specialist, Entomology Curriculum Guide for 4-H in the Classroom, Teaming with Insects, Level 1; 4-H Entomology Resources: State Fair; Project Butterfly WINGS Youth Guide: (Grades 4-8);
Date: Early Summer 2020Audience: Kenton County Youth
Activity: 4-H School Programs including after school
Content or Curriculum: Acres of Adventures, The Power of the Wind Youth Guide,
Inputs: NYSD materials, 4-H Natural Resources Curriculum, Kentucky Natural Resources Curriculum
Date: September 2019 – May 2020
Author: Diane Kelley
Major Program: Natural Resources
Kenton County Cooperative Extension surveyed teachers in 3 Kenton County school districts at the end of the 2021-2022 school year requesting input for 4-H natural resource school program lessons. 4-H Council members in November 2021 also spoke at length for the need to engage school program youth in projects and other educational opportunities. As a result of the surveys and discussion with local council members, lessons for the 2022-2023 school year, included hands-on activities/exp
Author: Lori Clark
Major Program: Health
Today’s families are looking for ways to promote sustainable practices, reduce screen time, and encourage their children to engage in meaningful outdoor activities. One such activity introduced to families was maple syrup production. Not only is it a fun and educational experience for all ages, but it also has a multitude of benefits. According to Children and Nature Network the benefits for children include but are not limited to “improved behavior, better academic success and enhan
