Nevada 4-H seeking ambassadors to the hive
A silver poplar north of Genoa grew a beard of bees in April 2021.
Photo by Kurt Hildebrand.
Teens interested in learning more about pollinators and getting hands-on experience developing pollinator habitats can apply to become a Nevada 4-H Pollinator Ambassador through a new program being launched by the University of Nevada, Reno Extension.
The University of Nevada, Reno Extension was awarded a $15,000 grant to establish the Nevada 4-H Pollinator Ambassador Program through a partnership with the National 4-H Council and Corteva Agriscience as part of the national Pollinator Habitat Program 4- H. Youth ages 14-19 from across Nevada who are interested in being a Pollinator Ambassador are encouraged to apply and do not have to be a current 4-H member.
“We are thrilled to be selected as one of the recipients of this grant,” said Douglas County Extension Educator Lindsay Chichester. “In Nevada, my colleagues and I are building momentum with bees, horticulture and pollinators in general, and this looks like a big step in the right direction.”
The Nevada 4-H Pollinator Ambassador Program is an 11-month commitment that includes online and in-person training about pollinators and pollinator habitats, and how to provide educational outreach to other audiences across the state. Approximately 10 youth will be selected and at least six of the ambassadors will have the opportunity to attend the National 4-H Youth Summit – IGNITE, in March in Washington, DC. Ambassadors will have an opportunity to travel to the country to interact with their colleagues. , learn more about pollinators and work to develop pollinator habitats at several locations across the state.
“This program will empower teenagers to protect and educate their peers about pollinators across Nevada,” says Katelyn Brinkerhoff, Extension’s statewide Master Gardener Program coordinator. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to expose young people to a range of pollinators and horticulture.”
Most program costs will be covered by grant and Extension funds. There may be some small incidental costs for participants, but Extension is working to cover those as well, from grants and other donations. More information on the program and the link to the application can be found online here. Applications must be returned to Chichester by January 13. Applications can be completed online or completed and returned by mail. Potential candidates will be interviewed. If accepted, participants must attend one of two virtual orientation sessions, held from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on January 30 and 31,
Persons requiring accommodations or special assistance should contact Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at [email protected] or 702-257-5577 at least five days prior to the scheduled event with their needs or more information.
