Hopkins County 4-H was able to host a successful Natural Resource Day Camp on June 16, 2021 at Mahr Park Arboretum.  The goal for this program day was for youth to better understand how they impact their environment and how they can be the change to improve it.  Through the help of multiple community resources, the youth was able to gain valuable knowledge.

The event was held at Mahr Park Arboretum that contains a 265 acre park housing wildlife, native trees, plants, walking trails, and many ponds.  This made for the perfect scenery for our Natural Resource Day, while building a better partnership with the park.  The day started at the Welcome Center and their pond then ended at our Danny Peyton Outdoor Educational Center and Farmers Market that is located in the park.   

The adventures of the Natural Resource Day Camp started with 4-H Agents Connor Cooper and Katie Mills led programs of clean water and the enviroscape. Next, guest speakers from Madisonville Community College covered lessons on soil types and “what is in your water”.  Then the day was ended with Reptile Zoo of Kentucky bringing multiple reptiles for the youth to see and learn about.

Due to some youth having to leave early, 15 surveys were completed.  It was exciting to see that most have visited Mahr Park before besides one.  There were 14 youth that learned something and felt they knew how to make a difference helping protect their Earth.  67% indicated that they wanted to learn more about Natural Resources and their environment. We encouraged each to try to make a small difference at home!