Tree identification, merit badges, forestry contests, Envirothon, and Project Learning Tree are just a few of the topics to be discussed at the upcoming â€śYoung People and Forestry:Â A Natural Connectionâ€ť workshops hosted by Mississippi State University County Extension Offices throughout Northeast Mississippi on September 30.
Youth group leaders, home school parents, landowners, forestry leaders, and foresters are invited to attend this free program, designed to showcase programs where young people can learn about conservation of our abundant forests.
Â Participants will learn how forestry and natural resources can be included in programs, such as
4-H, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts in terms of merit badges, contests, and club meetings/events.Â Also featured are two special programs â€” Envirothon, Mississippiâ€™s largest environmental competition and Project Learning Tree, a low cost and easy to use environmental education program, which has activities appropriate for formal classrooms, club meetings and home school get-togethers.Â The information presented in this new short course will be of special interest to every youth group leader and educator.Â
Â Youth group leaders will learn how forestry and conservation education fits into their organizationâ€™s program and will meet foresters and forestry leaders who want to volunteer their services.Â Foresters and forestry leaders attending the program will learn about volunteer opportunities where they can use their knowledge and skills to help young people.Â Home school and other parents will discover enrichment opportunities for their children for learning sound environmental principles from reputable organizations.Â All attendees will benefit from learning about programs that complement each other and provide fun, educational programming to young people about one of Mississippiâ€™s most valuable and treasured resources.Â
Â Young People and Forestry: A Natural Connection runs from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. on September 30.Â There is no cost for the program. Foresters will receive continuing education hours. Â Participants need to bring a sack lunch.Â The program is free to the public and will be presented via interactive video from Mississippi State University. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged so please call your local Mississippi State University County Extension Office to reserve your space. Â Â A list of county Extension offices is available at www.msucares.com/counties.
Â The Oktibbeha County Extension Office will offer this program at the Oktibbeha County Extension office located at 106 Felix Long Drive, Starkville, MS 39759.Â