4-H offering new wildlife program

The 4-H program is offering a unique opportunity for youth interested in Nevada wildlife.

The Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Program will teach youth aged 8 to 19 about a variety of wildlife topics. Teams will be formed to compete against other state teams to develop management plans for wildlife habitat. The winning team will advance to the national contest in New Mexico in July.

Teams will work with wildlife professionals to learn the fundamentals of wildlife science and management of natural resources, fisheries and habitat.

Adult leaders are needed to guide the groups. They will receive free training March 20 and 22 in Gardnerville.

The wildlife program won the 1996 Wildlife Society Conservation Education Award. It is a cooperative effort of University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the National Rifle Association.

Youth interested in joining the program, as well as adults interested in being leaders, should contact 4-H's Sandy Wallin, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, (775) 887-2252, by March 18.

The 4-H program is a youth development program of University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.