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WILDLIFE HABITAT EVALUATION PROGRAM TEACHES 4-HERS WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT SKILLS

Extension Education

Brian Haller
CEA-STAFF CHAIR
University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service
SEARCY

Abstract

\r\n The 4-H Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Program (WHEP) started out as "Wildlife Judging," a state-wide program with the Tennessee Agriculture Extension Service in 1978.  In 1989, "Wildlife Judging" went nationwide. The national event was held in West Virginia with the support of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. The program was officially named WHEP in 1990, and the national contest was moved to different regions each year, exposing participants to wildlife habitats and practices unique to those regions. The WHEP program was implemented in Arkansas in 1991.  The White County Cooperative Extension Service got involved in the program in 1996.  Since then the WHEP has grown with much success.  The National and Arkansas 4-H Wildlife Habitat Education Program is designed to teach youth the fundamentals of wildlife management.  Although these are competitive events, their primary function is education.  Wildlife management is learned through participation in statewide activities and county clubs, and through field trips, practice sessions, and demonstrations.  Additional benefits come from developing leadership capabilities and interacting with youth and wildlife professionals from across the state and nation.  WHEP has grown in Arkansas to 130 4-H’ers and 50 non-contestants in 2009.

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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: B. W. Haller, R. J. McPeake
  1. Haller, B. County Extension Agent - Staff Chair, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Arkansas, 72143
  2. McPeake, R. Extension Specialist - Wilidlife, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Arkansas, 72203