The B.C. government is investing $87,000 in the B.C. 4-H Council to encourage young British Columbians to experience and pursue a career in agriculture.

The funding was announced by Eric Foster, MLA for Vernon Monashee, on behalf of B.C. Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick, at a Vernon 4-H horse club first-year check, in which members were taught skills such as measuring, and checking a horse's temperature.

The funding will support the 4-H program in its 99th year of operation in B.C. and help its 2,200 youth members learn about farming and food production as well as building leadership skills and personal development. 4-H members complete hands-on projects in areas such as field crops, beef, horse, dairy, poultry, bees, agroforestry and mechanics designed to prepare them with knowledge and experiences to guide a successful career.

Ministry of Agriculture youth development staff also deliver conferences to youth and work closely with more than 600 registered 4-H volunteers, who mentor the youth and help transfer agriculture knowledge and skills from one generation to another.

4-H stands for head, heart, hands and health. 4-H members range in age from six to 21 years and are part of clubs in more than 50 B.C. communities. The goal of the 4-H program is youth development, with a focus on knowledge, leadership, citizenship and personal development.

Quotes:

Norm Letnick, Minister of Agriculture -

"One of the things I find most rewarding about being Agriculture Minister is my meetings with young British Columbians interested in farming. They are incredibly passionate about local foods, have grown up technology-savvy, and are keenly aware that a career in agriculture is also one in business."

"4-H clubs offer our youth the mentorship and expertise of volunteers, who are often an owner of one of the 20,000 family farms in B.C."

B.C. 4-H Provincial Council president Rick Kantz -

"Kids learn top-notch agriculture and leadership skills through 'learn to do by doing' in 4-H. I and other B.C. 4-H volunteers are pleased to partner with the Ministry of Agriculture to deliver this practical learning to youth, it is necessary for our future in the agriculture sector."

Learn More at:

Ministry of Agriculture's youth and community development programs: http://www.agf.gov.bc.ca/resmgmt/4-H/youth_dev_pgm.htm

B.C. 4-H: http://www.bc4h.bc.ca

Media Contacts:

Robert Boelens
Ministry of Agriculture
250 882 2485

Kevin Rothwell
B.C. 4-H Manager
250 545-0336