Clay County is known for beautiful rolling hills, mountains, valleys and hollows. The county is located within the Southeastern Coal Field Region and nestled within the Daniel Boone National Forest. It is also located in Kentucky’s Elk Country Corridor along with several other surrounding counties. However, Clay County’s unemployment rate according the Bureau of Labor Statistics is 6.8%, while the state of Kentucky’s unemployment rate is 4.2%. Many individuals are relocating in other areas for jobs and other opportunities.

With constant concerns such as graduating high school students not returning to the county and a great need for more career development opportunities, the 4-H Agent implemented the 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy opportunity for Clay County youth. For the 2018-2019 program year, Clay County 4-H currently has five youth representatives in the program.

The three-year program is designed for middle school students to enhance career interests and increase leadership skills, while exploring Kentucky’s natural environment. Each year scholars concentrate on a different core area, which include water, forestry and wildlife. Scholars have opportunities to interact with professionals from each core area and travel throughout that state. Scholars have participated in activities including wildlife surveys, fur processing demonstrations, tree identification, forest management, watershed activities, and much more.

Scholars have reported:

“Learning about new career opportunities in natural resources and environmental sciences.”

“Having a better understanding of Kentucky’s natural resources.”

“Gaining leadership and appreciation for Kentucky’s natural resources.”

“Engaging in new activities for the first time.”