Future Farmers

Future Farmers for Freshwater is a new project geared towards helping 4-H members learn more about agricultural best management practices for growing food and keeping our water clean. Not only will the club members be engaged through virtual or in-person presentations and activities, they will also take part in a hands-on community service stewardship project such as a tree planting.

As the future farmers and stewards of our watersheds, we want to help 4-H youth get involved in protecting their watershed while having successful farming businesses and enjoying the benefits of a rural life in our region.

A woman explains the future of farming over a Zoom call

Club Presentations

Hosted virtually or in-person (when possible), 4-H club members will be engaged in learning about an important farming resource – water. From their local watershed and freshwater resources, to agricultural best practices and clean water solutions, members will appreciate their water in a new light, and be primed to take action.

Clubs are also invited to build in extra activity sessions, such as a canoe trip or watershed hike. Register now to sign-up!

A woman and a child squatting near the ground, farming

Community Service & Stewardship

Take action to help improve the environment and our freshwater! 4-H clubs will help us plant native trees in a local riparian area (along a river, wetland, or lake). This act will reduce erosion, prevent runoff, and help keep the water cleaner and cooler! We are also open to other stewardship projects, just let us know what you would like to do!

We will work with local landowners for site location and maintenance, and will provide the trees, shovels, and expertise. You provide the extra hands and energy for planting!

4-H Pillars

The Future Farmers for Freshwater Program has been designed to meets all 4 Leadership Development Pillars of 4-H. Clubs will:

Make a positive difference and contribute to the BRWA by learning about their watersheds and helping local farmers and downstream water users.
(Community Engagement and Communications)
Learn about some new and exciting advances in agriculture, and how they are helping our freshwater and our bottom line.
(Science and Technology)
Help feed the future! Our future farmers are going to be growing more food, more sustainably, for more people. Not only will this program show successful examples of sustainable agriculture, but it will also help sow the seeds of sustainable living with the youth. (Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)
Take part in a tree planting or other stewardship activity to improve their local environment. And having a cleaner, healthier river also means healthier people!
(The Environment and Healthy Living)