In a September 2024 online article by the American Red Cross, 11 survival skills were detailed in an effort to help people become more prepared for a situation that demands basic skills and minimal preparation to stay alive (https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/resources/articles/11-survival-skills-to-know). Articles, like this one, are the result of a movement for people to become more self-reliant and an increase in outdoor recreation participation (https://outdoorindustry.org/press-release/outdoor-participation-hits-record-levels-for-ninth-consecutive-year/). The recognition of needs within the local community for healthy food options and life skill development prompted the Garrard County Extension Office to design, implement, and evaluate a Campfire Cooking program. 

The collaborative effort between the Family and Consumer Science (FCS) Agent, Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Agent, and the 4-H Youth Development (4-H) Agent showcased the skills and opportunities within each program area and provided a unique educational opportunity for community members. The FCS Agent selected menu items to maximize healthy food options during an outdoor cooking event or they could easily translate to at-home recipes as well, designed a food preparation lesson, and worked with the ANR Agent to demonstrate open fire cooking methods. The 4-H Agent taught a lesson on fire building, safety, and using alternate methods to start a fire, including, but not limited to, using a ferrocerium rod and striker. Each individual prepared and cooked their own meal over the fire. 

Evaluations are currently being organized, but the sentiment during and after the program was appreciation and hope for additional collaborative programming between the Cooperative Extension Service Agents by the participants.