You likely know them as the happy, hardworking kids in the barns at every summer fair across British Columbia. The Province knows them as the future of agriculture, and that's why it's investing $85,000 in the B.C. 4-H program's young members through a provincial grant.

More than 2,350 young people between six and 21 years old participate in the B.C. 4-H program. The goal of the 4-H program, which is now more than 95 years old, is youth development, with a focus on knowledge, leadership, citizenship and personal development.

The B.C. 4-H program is a vital link between youth and agriculture that contributes to the future of farming in B.C. The grant will be used to continue agriculture awareness among young British Columbians and management of the 4-H program.

For a video of Agriculture Minister Don McRae with B.C. 4-H kids on a dairy goat farm, visit: www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/agriculture/

Quick Facts:

• 4-H stands for head, heart, hands and health.
• The program's projects prepare youth for their future as adult citizens of any community, not just rural or farm communities.
• Some 4-H projects include agroforestry, aquaculture, beef, the environment and photography.

Learn More:

For more information about B.C. Youth and Community Development Programs, visit:

http://www.agf.gov.bc.ca/indcomp/youth_dev_pgm.htm

To learn more about B.C. 4-H, see:

http://www.bc4h.bc.ca/

Contact:

Niki Pandachuck
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Agriculture
250 387-1693