Twenty-five Michigan 4-H’ers aged 13 to 19 are having a positive effect on public policy related to conservation issues and the natural environment as members of the Michigan 4-H Youth Conservation Council.

The council members work as a team to select a conservation issue, then research the topic, develop oral and written presentations, and testify on their recommendations before one of the standing committees of the Michigan Senate or House of Representatives that handle issues related to natural resources and the environment.

The topic for this year hasn’t been identified yet, but over the past six years members of M4-HYCC have addressed conservation issues such as water quality, bovine tuberculosis in white-tailed deer, land use and wetlands, the effects of petroleum spills in lakes and rivers, and recycling. They have also successfully lobbied for the development of a Michigan Heritage Water Trail program.

The M4-HYCC helps teen members improve their knowledge and skills in public speaking and writing factual reports. They increase their awareness of current conservation issues and understanding of the legislative process, and learn to work effectively as part of a team of other teens from across Michigan.

The teen members enjoy meeting others from different Michigan counties and sharing ideas and experiences at gatherings at Kettunen Center and in East Lansing for learning and social benefits. They communicate regularly in Internet chat rooms and an e-mail discussion group.
The program has received several awards for environmental excellence. The Michigan Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs presented the group with the White Pine Award in 2002 for their “enduring commitment to conserving and protecting the natural resources in the state of Michigan.”

In 2003 M4-HYCC members earned the John Hannah Award from Michigan State University Extension. The Hannah Award, which recognizes excellence in Extension programming, is the most prestigious given by MSU Extension.

M4-HYCC earned national recognition when it received one of ten Environmental Excellence Awards from Sea World, Busch Gardens and Fujifilm in 2004. This award recognized the program for its “creativity and commitment to protect and preserve wildlife and the environment in your community.”

Most recently, M4-HYCC received an award from the National Clean Boating Campaign for its “dedication and commitment to supporting programs that encourage clean boating practices and clean marinas.”

For more information about or to apply to become a part of the M4-HYCC, visit http://web1.msue.msu.edu/cyf/youth/m4hycc.html.