It has been often said, "The best way to induce change in adult's practices is through their children." This was the theory upon which the 4-H youth development program began back in the early 1900s, and it provides for reflection as we celebrate National 4-H week this week.The Land Grant Institutions, such as Oregon State University, were established back in 1862 with the first Morrill Act.
The original mission was to teach agriculture, military tactics and the mechanic arts, as well as classical studies, so members of the working classes could obtain a liberal, practical education.
In 1914, the Smith-Lever Act created a Cooperative Extension Service associated with each land-grant institution.
The purpose of the Extension Service was to disseminate information gleaned from experimental stations and university research, and it continues to be instrumental in working with families and communities in developing agriculture businesses.
The 4-H was created as part of the original establishment of the Extension Service because the adults were slow to test new farming techniques. (Read More)
DEREK GODWIN
Statesman Journal