The government of British Columbia is investing in the future of agriculture with an $87,000 grant for the B.C. 4-H program.

The 4-H program has been around for over 95 years. Today more than 2,200 youth between the ages of six and 21 participate in programs throughout B.C. Special projects are available for young adults.

4-H is well known for teaching young British Columbians about agricultural activities. The B.C. government supports 4-H programs that help young people build life and jobs skills, guiding them to successful careers in agriculture and beyond. 4-H participants repeatedly tell of how their experiences gave them a valuable head start on their adult lives and careers.

The goal of the 4-H program is youth development, with a focus on knowledge, leadership, citizenship and personal development. The personal leadership skills learned in B.C. 4-H can be applied to any job in any sector - from agrifoods and tourism, to education and health care.

Photo: A photo of McRae and B.C. 4-H Provincial Council president Susy Chung-Smith attending a PNE event celebrating youth in agriculture is available at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bcgovphotos/7930903016/in/photostream/

Quotes:

Don McRae, Minister of Agriculture -

"We want to ensure a strong future for agriculture in B.C., and 4-H plays an important role in that future because their members are the next generation of farmers. We look forward to a continued partnership with 4-H in administering programs for youth interested in training and education for careers in the agriculture sector."

B.C. 4-H Provincial Council president Susy Chung-Smith -

"The B.C. 4-H program appreciates the support of the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture as our organization trains and builds future leaders for the agriculture industry. The 4-H program is all over B.C. and provides a learning environment that highlights agriculture commodities and production as well as responsibility, leadership and community. Together we are building B.C. youth and communities for a sustainable future in agriculture."

Quick Facts:

• 4-H stands for head, heart, hands and health.

• B.C.'s agriculture, aquaculture, fish and food processing industries generate over $10 billion in provincial revenues and account for more than 61,000 jobs.

• Nearly 30,000 people are employed in B.C.'s primary agriculture and aquaculture activities.

• Many 4-H participants are part of a larger network of farm families. Most B.C. farms - 98 per cent - are family owned and operated.

Learn More:

To learn more about B.C. 4-H, see: http://www.bc4h.bc.ca/

Media Contact:

Kathryn Hardy
Communications
Ministry of Agriculture
250 387-1693