University educators want to draw teenagers away from their phones and into the outdoors with a unique opportunity. They are offering 4-H summer camps focused on wild horse management and careers in natural resources. These camps target youths aged 9 to 18.
The camps come from a partnership between Utah State University and University of California Cooperative Extension. They aim to teach young people about healthy lands and healthy horses. Funding comes from a U.S. Bureau of Land Management grant.
Research shows teens learn better outside the classroom. Laura Snell, a UC Cooperative Extension advisor, says this hands-on approach helps youth develop interests in protecting the natural world.
This summer, the Northern California camp will run from August 6 to 8 at Blue Lake Camp in Modoc National Forest. The camp has grown into a three-day, two-night event that combines traditional camp activities with education about wild horses and range management.
The program splits campers into two age groups: 11 to 13 and 14 to 18. Both groups study managing public lands, wild horses, and burros. They visit a Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse Facility and observe horses in their natural rangeland habitat.
New this year, the camp introduces career paths in natural resources, including forestry, soils, and hydrology. Campers will also enjoy swimming, canoeing, and other typical camp experiences.
The camp costs $125 and includes meals and lodging in bunk houses. It accepts 25 participants and covers 4-H registration for newcomers. Registration closes June 1.
Do you think hands-on outdoor learning can change how teenagers connect with nature? Could this approach inspire more youth to pursue careers in conservation? If you want to learn more or register, visit the Utah State University extension website or contact Laura Snell directly.
