Clay County has over 300,000 acres of land with approximately 256,000 acres of forest land. Many youth across the county lack knowledge and appreciation of the surrounding environment.  In order to increase awareness, the 4-H Youth Development Agent and ANR Agent collaborated and hosted an Environmental Field Day at Big Double Creek Park in Peabody, KY.

UK Cooperative Extension partnered with US Department of Forestry, Clay County Soil Conservation District, KY Department of Fish & Wildlife, KY Division of Waste Management,  KY Department of Water & Air Quality,  and elementary teachers.  There were 110 elementary students, and 26 volunteers who participated at this event.  
This year group sessions were held on reptiles and fire prevention for all students.  Students were then divided into groups and had the opportunity to visit five stations, which consisted of water quality, waste management, raptors, wildlife,  and soil conservation. The volunteers had multiple hands-on activities to help engage students at each station. Students were given a pre and post evaluations. After completion of the program, students indicated an increase of knowledge in how to better protect the environment, distinguish the difference between reducing, reusing and recycling products, and reasons why wildlife biologist place tracking collars on animals. Over 96% of students reported that they felt more knowledgeable about their environment and would consider careers in forestry, soil and water conservation and wildlife management.  Agents spent additional dollars bringing in reptile and raptor programs to give students a different educational experience which were a big hit with the students.

 Overall, this event was a positive experience for the children and provided an experience that the individual schools could not afford.