HISTORY OF

THE 4-H PROGRAM IN NEW BRUNSWICK

        4-H began in New Brunswick in 1916 in the Sussex area with the help from New Brunswick Department of Agriculture Extension workers.  It involved two projects – poultry and swine.  The first club was called the "Boys and Girls Club". 

        In February of 1996 the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced major changes to its programs.  These changes affected the 4-H program.  The 4-H program became independent from the Department and the N.B. 4-H Council now administers the 4-H program in New Brunswick with the help of an operating grant of $65,000 from the Department and other sponsorship, donations and Fundraisers.

        The 4-H program in the Province of New Brunswick is open to all youth in the Province who are ages 7 through 21 years.

        The program is organized into Clubs, District Councils and the Provincial 4-H Council.  We have a total of 5 districts, 26 clubs, 516 members and 146 adult volunteer leaders in New Brunswick.

        Today we offer several projects for members to participate in.  Our top livestock project is dairy with light horse and beef following closely behind.  Scrapbooking is the top non-livestock project followed by photography and foods.

        In addition to project work the New Brunswick members and leaders have a number of activities they can participate in:

  § Annual conferences and camps for members and leaders

§ Provincial Communications Competition with the top senior 4-H member eligible to be sent to the Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture Competition in connection with the Royal Winter Fair

§ Annual canoe trip

§ Annual van tour for Senior 4-H members

§ Provincial 4-H Show

§ Annual Wilderness and Camping Retreat

There are also scholarships and travel opportunities available to our members and leaders. The 4-H program in New Brunswick is a quality educational experience for its members and adult volunteer leaders and participants are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities available to them.

        It has an office of its own and employs a Provincial Co-ordinator to administer the  program in New Brunswick.