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EDUCATION IN THE FIELD: HIGH DESERT YOUTH RANGE CAMP

Extension Education

Anna-Marie Chamberlain
Malheur County Extension Agent
Oregon State University
Ontario

Abstract

\r\n   Decisions regarding the health and management of natural resources are more critical than ever. A range camp committee of Agricultural Research Center Scientists, University Extension Agents, Rangeland Professionals, Community College Instructors and Science Teachers met to develop curriculum, set program goals and objectives and plan the High Desert Youth Range Camp. The overall goal was to provide high school youth the opportunity to engage in a systems approach to rangeland science, encouraging them to pursue educational and career goals in the natural resource field. To achieve this goal a learn-by-doing curriculum was developed for a real-life, field setting learning experience. Learning opportunities were created to develop leadership and basic range skills while exposing youth to various rangeland oriented careers.  Youth had opportunities to gain problem-solving skills and strategies, develop awareness of rangeland issues, and learn how they can make a positive difference in rangeland management.  Range concepts included: global positioning systems, map reading, compass and orienteering, soils analysis, plant identification and monitoring, fire interactions, grazing, weeds, Juniper and riparian zone investigations, site habitat evaluation for key wildlife species, a site visit to local ranch, student team oral presentations and team building/ leadership activities.  Evaluations measured participant knowledge, attitudes, skills, career aspirations and behaviors before and after attending camp.  As a result of Range Camp, retrospective pre-post evaluations demonstrated considerable change in knowledge in 15 of 16 questions asked.  Students reported being able to make informed decisions regarding rangeland management issues and some are now considering possible Natural Resource related careers.”

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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.

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Authors: A. Chamberlain, B. Brody, D. Johnson,
  1. Chamberlain, A. Malheur County Livestock & Rangeland Specialist, Oregon State University, Oregon, 97914
  2. Brody, B. Malheur County 4-H agent, Oregon State University, Oregon, 97914
  3. Johnson, D. Harney County Extension Agent, Oregon State University, Oregon, 97220
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