Today's youth are overwhelmed with digital information to the point they often can't see the forest for the trees.  Their social lives are dominated by messaging and video games; the educational life is now taught through smart boards and laptops.  Adair County 4-H sought to show youth the value of our natural resources and how they can be a valuable asset to their mental health and our community.  

25 youth from Adair County participated in the program representing fourth and fifth grade students.  During the education event, youth learned twenty varieties of native Kentucky trees including the Ash tree that is used for the majority of wooden baseball bats.  The youth also learned how to measure trees and use a compass and pacing for better enjoyment of the trails.  

The program was successful because of the four Cooperative Extension Services that helped organize the event along with the Kentucky Department of Forestry, Green River Lake State Park Rangers, and the University of Kentucky Forestry Department.  

 After each educational component, there were opportunities for the youth to demonstrate their comprehension.  The youth showed progress in learning to identify trees and use the tree measuring sticks and compasses.