The Province of B.C. has signed a new 10-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) with 4-H British Columbia to help engage young British Columbians with careers in agriculture.

While visiting a new 4-H club in Merritt, Minister of Agriculture Norm Letnick presented the provincial organization with a cheque for $87,000, the province’s financial commitment to the program each fiscal year.

The MOU will support 4-H British Columbia in its 100 years plus of operation by helping its members learn about farming and food production. 4-H is a well-known program for teaching young British Columbians life and job skills that will guide them to a successful career in agriculture and beyond. The 4-H clubs in B.C. focus on transferring agriculture knowledge and skills from one generation to another through 4-H leaders and volunteers. In addition, urban youth are able to connect to agriculture through a variety of projects, such as poultry, rabbit, dog, gardening, crafts, sewing, and many more.

The Ministry of Agriculture Youth Development staff deliver conferences to 4-H clubs and work closely with registered volunteers. These committed volunteers lend their time and knowledge to mentor youth and help them gain experience in a variety of agriculture traditions. This leads to increased interest in agriculture that can help sustain the industry for future generations. The program plays a vital part in supporting a diverse and growing economy.

4-H stands for head, heart, hand and health. 4-H members range in age from six to 25 years old and are part of clubs in more than 50 B.C. communities. The program encourages young people to become productive, self-assured adults and promotes knowledge, leadership, citizenship and personal development.

Quotes:

Minister of Agriculture Norm Letnick -

“The future of the agriculture sector is with these kids participating in 4-H. It’s very rewarding as the Minister of Agriculture to meet young British Columbians who are keen to learn and show interest in farming. It’s important to the province to support programs like 4-H.”

Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart -

“4-H clubs are a vital part of our community. The program encourages youth to get involved and participate in the agriculture traditions that have been passed down from generations. The life and leadership skills young people take away from 4-H is going keep local economies strong and diverse in the future.”

Kevin Rothwell, manager, 4-H British Columbia -

“4-H British Columbia is very pleased to have strong support from the province as today's learners become tomorrow's leaders in agriculture and industry. This agreement provides the stability to continue to involve more British Columbians in our world class youth development program.”

Allison Guichon, 4-H Club A leader, Nicola Valley -

“I think 4-H is an amazing program for youth! It teaches skills that are transferable to everyday life such as public speaking, record keeping, and financial management, in addition to the responsibility of raising and caring for their projects. The provincial opportunities allow members to widen their views of agriculture by exposing them to other types. Overall, 4-H is a wonderful program, and I am pleased to see so many youth continue to develop their skills year after year, and I am particularly pleased to see such interest locally and have so many members in our new club! I wish to thank the Government of B.C. for their support of both youth and agriculture.”

Learn More:

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

Media Contacts:

Jillian Milne
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Agriculture
778 676-4460

Kevin Rothwell
4-H British Columbia
250 545-0336