ORONO — University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H plans to offer its Ag Ambassador program this fall. The program, open to all Maine teens ages 14-18, focuses on career exploration through farm and production visits around the state and provides opportunities to build relationships with industry professionals.

The Fall 2023 cohort will meet virtually from 3:30-5 p.m. on Wednesdays, Oct. 18 and 25 and Nov. 1 and 15. The program also features three on-farm meetings on Saturday, Oct. 21, Friday, Nov. 10, and Saturday, Dec. 2. For a full schedule, visit the program website at extension.umaine.edu.

With the shrinking number of formal agricultural programs in high schools, students are lacking opportunities to learn about local food systems and discover careers in agriculture. The 4-H Ag Ambassador program aims to help teens from all walks of life discover a future in agriculture and connect with other young people with similar goals, according to a news release from the extension office.

Youth involved in this program can pursue their interest in agriculture and explore career pathways. This includes mentoring in post-secondary opportunities, as well as investigating current issues related to food systems, livestock, crop sciences, aquaculture, climate change and equitable access.

4-H membership is not required for participation. Register on the program website by Wednesday, Oct. 11. To request reasonable accommodation, email extension.4hagleadership@maine.edu or call 207-622-7546.

Receiving requests for accommodations at least 10 days before the program provides a reasonable amount of time to meet them, but all requests will be considered.

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