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Youth in Abbeville, McCormick and Greenwood Counties increase knowledge of local water resources
| Name | Rhonda Matthews | | Situation | Abbeville, McCormick, and Greenwood Counties are abundant in bodies of water that serve several purposes: drinking water sources, recreation, and economic development. The youth in these counties appreciate the recreational aspects of these lakes, but are unaware of the conservation measures necessary to maintain the health of these bodies of water. The youth lack knowledge regarding pollution and its effects, the advantages of buffer zones, and the necessity of microscopic life in the lakes. | | Response | In 2004, Abbeville County held a 4-H2O program at Calhoun Falls State Park located along the banks of Richard B. Russell Lake. Sixteen youth enrolled in the 4-day program. McCormick County held a 4-H2O program at Plum Branch Yacht Club on the banks of Lake Thurmond. Greenwood County held a 4-H2O program at Lake Greenwood State Park. In total, 46 youth enrolled in these programs. At each site, various components of natural resource conservation were taught. The youth learned about point and non-point source pollution, erosion and sediment build up. They learned how a lake is fed by inflowing waters and how to determine the health of those
inflowing waters by assessing the macroinvertebrates living there. They learned how to use scientific equipment to classify plankton and algae in their respective lakes as well as the importance of these microscopic life forms. As part of the program, each youth participant received a 4-H2O notebook, full of water-related information. Students also were able to make their own personal secchi disk and learned how to use this instrument to determine water clarity.
Numerous agencies were willing to partner with the Clemson University Extension Service to conduct these programs. Along with local individuals who volunteered their time and expertise, agencies such as the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), SC State Parks, US Army Corp of Engineers, US Soil and Water Conservation Districts, SC Family and Community Leaders (FCL), and the US Power Squadron. Several of the Clemson University Extension Agents and specialists were also involved in the team effort to run these programs successfully.
The programs received media coverage in each county that participated in the project. The Abbeville Press and Banner, the McCormick Messenger and the Greenwood Index-Journal all ran stories about the programs. | | Impact | The result of these programs is an increased understanding in the importance of natural resource conservation. Each youth enrolled in the programs took part in daily reviews of the previous day's information. Reviews were done orally with all of the youth giving input each day. Small group work also yielded positive results. Group leaders reported that their members understood the subject matter and were able to apply the new knowledge to their personal situations. Youth leave this program with a stronger working knowledge of natural resource conservation and how
they play a part in it. By being part of this program, they hone their
skills with scientific instruments, improve their teamwork ability, and develop a deeper appreciation for their local body of water. |
Last update4/24/2008
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