Youth Development (McKinley County)

Photography Contest guidelines and requirements have been updated and reflect more timely and diverse skills. In 2007, 88 photos were received from 31 youth representing eight counties. A Promotional 4-H Calendar is created annually using the top 12 photos from the photography contest, increasing recognition of youth participating in the photography contest. Calendars include 4-H and other organizations dates. Printing costs are sponsored by El Paso Electric Company. Over 300 calendars are distributed annually with proceeds going to support 4-H programming.

Youth and adult Record Book trainings were conducted across the state, increasing knowledge and skills in record keeping and written communication. Ten youth submitted State Records in 2007.

The 4-H agent assisted in conducting GIS/GPS program with the out reach agent at Ft. Wingate High School - this program was done to finalize data collected from last school year and help they compile their data for the science fair projects. The agent also did presentations on noxious weeds and soils for these same studnets.

The 2nd annual water festival was held at Gallup Jr. High School, this event is about conservation of water at home, work, and recreation areas. All 4th and 5th grade students were invited to participate with approximately 550 youth attending this two day event. The 4-H agent and Home Economist conducted a game involving water and handed out information on how to conserve water at school and home.

TRIBAL 4-H PLANNING COMMITTEE: Northern District CES Agents, State Specialists and District Director have met numerous times this 4-H year to discuss the needs of an underserved population in New Mexico Native Americans. Planning included discussions of culture awareness, protocol among the various Nations, and involvement of youth and adults in the 4-H program. Currently McKinley County has several active 4-H clubs on the Navajo Nation and the Zuni Reservation.