4-H began at the end of the 19th century as a way to bring new agricultural techniques to farmers through rural youth programs. Reluctance of farmers to adopt new agricultural practices was circumvented by introducing youth, who were more open to new ideas, to innovative farming methods that they would then bring back to the adults in their communities. Today 4-H is dedicated to youth development in communities nationwide. With a focus on STEM advancement, 4-H offers in and out of school programs, clubs, and camps for youth ages five to 19. With roots in agriculture and animal science, 4-H is a natural fit for aquaculture advancement programs.
Through an innovative summer internship program developed by the University of Maine's Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research and Hancock County Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development Program, high school students were introduced to the role of sustainable aquaculture in the global food system. The group of seven students formed a 4-H club with the purpose of demonstrating sustainable aquaculture to the public at a local agricultural fair through a 4-H exhibit.
The students spent their summer, over an eight-week timeframe, at the Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research (CCAR), in Franklin, Maine. While at the CCAR, students were responsible for the production of 165 yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi). Emphasis was placed on the development of skills needed to rear fish and run and maintain a recirculating aquaculture system. In addition, participants learned about the history of aquaculture, engineering, and business.
We believe this may be the first time a farmed fish has been shown as part of a 4-H program at a rural agricultural fair. By exhibiting aquacultured products alongside traditionally farmed crops, it is our hope that one day farmed fish will be as socially accepted as farmed beef, pork, and chicken.
Funding for this project was provided by Maine EPSCoR/SEANET