Michigan State University Extension
4-H Youth Development

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4-H Youth Development
Michigan State University
160 Agriculture Hall 
East Lansing, MI
48824-1039
USA
Phone: 517-432-7575
Fax: 517-355-6748
Email: msue4h@msu.edu
Disclaimer & Indicia

 

 

4-H Environmental & Outdoor Education

GPS & Outdoor EducationJourney through field, forest, wetlands and urban areas to discover the wonders and mysteries of Michigan’s natural environment. Through their 4-H environmental and outdoor education projects young people will learn about the interconnection of people and nature. They’ll also develop respect and appreciation for and a sense of stewardship toward our natural resources. This 4-H programming area provides educational opportunities that help young people enjoy time outdoors and develop an understanding and appreciation of the environment through three core theme areas:

  • Basic science and ecology
  • Interrelationships and impacts
  • Health, wellness and positive outdoor experiences

The 4-H EOE project areas described here incorporate these themes into their learning activities:

Games

4-H Youth Enviro-Stew Fun & GamesVisit the 4-H Enviro-Stew Fun and Games Web site to have some online fun playing:

  • Michigan’s Least Wanted Species – This matching game features several species that have invaded Michigan’s natural environment. Play the game, then find out more about these “least wanted” plants, animals and insects.
  • Matching Michigan – Find out where a few of Michigan’s many natural resources are concentrated.
  • The Bug Collector – Assemble a virtual insect collection, then find out how you can create your own real collection.

Do, Reflect, ApplyGo to the next level by trying out the Do, Reflect Apply activities for the "Michigan's Least Wanted Species," "Mapping Michigan" and "Bug Collector" online games.

Learning Materials

The Walk: Taking Your Youth Outdoors for Environmental Stewardship and Learning! (4H1593) – This guide provides a process for getting started in natural resources and environmental education. It is geared toward adults and teens interested in sharing the wonders of our natural heritage and natural resources, outdoor recreation, or environmental science and stewardship with youth, especially youth aged 8 to 13. It outlines a "Pathway to Success," a mentoring program that provides long-term, club-based learning activities for youth. (80 pages, Michigan 4-H, 2000)

This guide is available online below as a PDF (portable document format). You will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader to view it. The PDF is divided into sections for faster downloading.

More information on other learning materials available to support these activities can be found in the Michigan Guide to 4-H or through the MSU Bulletin Office.

Awards & Recognition Programs, Career Preparation & Work Experience Activities, Contests, Grants & Publications

Opportunites related to 4-H Environmental and Outdoor Education abound! For more information check the Awards & Recognition Programs, Career Preparation & Work Experience Activities, Contests, Grants & Publications web site frequently.

Enjoying the Michigan OutdoorsTraining & Events

For 4-H Environmental and Outdoor Education-related training and events check the 4-H EOE Training & Events Web site frequently.

For more upcoming training and events in Michigan 4-H, check the 4-H Volunteer Workshops web site, the MSU Extension Calendar and the 4-H Exploration Days web site.

Contact Information

For more information on how to get involved as a youth or volunteer, contact your county MSU Extension office or:

Judy Ratkos, Program Leader
4-H Youth Development
Michigan State University
160 Agriculture Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824-1039
USA

Phone: 517-432-7613
Email: ratkos@msu.edu


Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 Michigan State University
Last Updated: October 18, 2007
Last Reviewed: November 8, 2006