ORONO — University of Maine Cooperative Extension will host the fifth annual 4-H Agricultural Symposium for Maine teens on April 19–21, at UMaine in Orono.

The symposium is an overnight experience for youth ages 13-18. Participants will take part in hands-on learning opportunities, engage with industry professionals on the UMaine campus, develop leadership skills and nurture friendships with teens from around the state. Youth will participate in an engineering challenge, an industry panel, and interactive learning experiences focused on topics like blueberry research and animal science. 

Previous 4-H membership is not required. Assistance with transportation can be provided upon request. Space is limited and registration is required at the program webpage. To help offset the cost of meals, lodging and transportation for this inclusive 3-day, 2-night event, there is a $40 registration fee. For families with multiple children attending, the fee is capped at $50 per family.

For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Alisha Targonski at 207.622.7546 or extension.4hagleadership@maine.edu.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension: As a trusted resource for over 100 years, Extension has supported UMaine's land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and help grow the food-based economy. Extension also leads Maine’s 4-H program, the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in the state. 4-H programs are grounded in the belief that kids learn best by doing and suit a variety of backgrounds, interests, budgets and schedules. Participants complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement in a positive environment where they are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.