A MULTI-APPROACH AG AWARENESS CAMPAIGN EDUCATES DIVERSE AUDIENCE
Extension Education
Amy Simpson
CEA - Staff Chair
ARKADELPHIA
Abstract
\r\n The county seat of Clark County, Arkansas is unique in that it is the home of two Universities. Because of this, there is a large academia population in the county, most of whom do not have basic knowledge or appreciation of agriculture. With 98% of its land area involved in farming or timber production, Clark County’s economy is very dependent on agriculture. Efforts were begun by county extension agent, Amy Simpson to increase agriculture awareness and appreciation in Clark County residents. Monthly in-school program were conducted in both school districts in the county to educate and increase the interest in agriculture among junior high students. 4-H Teen Leaders were enlisted and guided in researching facts on agriculture commodities, especially those important to Clark County and Arkansas. Those facts were then organized into 14 educational posters that were displayed throughout the county fair. A sponsorship from Farm Bureau was obtained to cover the costs of printing the posters and purchasing frames. Because of the in-school programming, 172 students increased their knowledge in how ag contributes to Arkansas’ economy, important commodities in Arkansas, careers in ag, new ag technologies, etc. As a result of the county fair posters, 87% of those polled reported an increase in knowledge in the ag commodities important to Arkansas, while 83% were more aware of ag’s contributions to the state economy. 4-H Teen Leaders were also taught important leadership skills while planning, organizing, creating and evaluating the ag awareness posters.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: A. L. Simpson
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Simpson, A. Extension Agent, 4-H/Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Arkansas, 71923