DATE: April 07, 2009

CONTACT: Katie Black, 864-656-6662
hulse@clemson.edu

WRITER: Susan Benson, 864-656-3869
benson2@clemson.edu

Applications now available for summer 2009 agricultural commissioner's school

CLEMSON — Rising high school juniors and seniors can apply to attend this year's South Carolina Commissioner's School for Agriculture at Clemson University. The application deadline is May 1.

This is the sixth year Clemson has offered this unique, hands-on program. About 45 students from inside and outside South Carolina are selected each year and the program gives them a glimpse into academic and career possibilities related to agriculture and natural resources. The 2008 class of 43 students was the largest class to complete the program.

The Commissioner's School for Agriculture runs July 18-24 and students will participate in scientific exploration and attend workshops related to academic integrity, teamwork, personal growth and leadership. Students may choose academic tracks related to their interests, but they also will be exposed to organic food growth, greenhouse production, athletic turf-grass management, animal and veterinary sciences, packaging science, aquaculture, forestry, wildlife and natural resource management. Field trips include visits to university research farms, the 17,500-acre Clemson Experimental Forest and a rafting experience on the Chattooga River.

Interested students can obtain an application by visiting http://www.clemson.edu/cafls/sccsa. For information about the South Carolina Commissioner's School for Agriculture or to provide financial support for this project, contact Katie Black at 864-656-6662 or e-mail at hulse@clemson.edu.