The problem: 

Kentucky is 48% forested and is known as having one of the most diverse hardwood species mix in the nation. Kentucky’s woodlands are vital, providing homes to a wide diversity of wildlife, protecting our water resources, and providing clean air. In addition, the forestry sector contributed an estimated $14.6 billion in total economic contribution in 2015, and provided over 28,400 jobs in the forest industry and more than 57,000 jobs overall.

The educational program response: 

To increase youth knowledge in Breathitt County in the content area of Natural Resources and the jobs available in the field the Breathitt County 4-H Agent looks for ways to provide educational learning experiences to these youth. One such avenue to do so is in the Kentucky 4-H State NRESci Academy Program. In April of this year two second year members of this group were able to travel to Jekyll Island Georgia to learn about the Ocean Ecosystem and were able to complete a comparative analysis of the ecosystem to the forested ecosystem in Kentucky.  

The participants/target audience: 

Youth in Breathitt County from 6th- 8th grade are eligible to participate in the NRESci Academy.

Other partners (if applicable)

Program impact or participant response:

The two youth that attended the Jekyll Island trip with the NRESci Academy identified that they enjoyed trip, and had learned so much about the Ocean Ecosystem. One member stated they enjoyed the salt water fishing best, because he was able to catch a stingray. He stated that this experience was the highlight of his trip and he would never forget it. He stated that he plans to further his education and become a Marine Biologist. The 4-h Agent in Breathitt County was very pleased with the outcome of this trip and looks forward to continuing to particpate in NRESci Academy events in the future.