University of Maine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Bryant Pond

Focusing on Youth Development

The focus of all 4-H programs is the development of youth as individuals and as responsible and productive citizens. The National 4-H Shooting Sports Program stands out as an example. Youth learn marksmanship, the safe and responsible use of firearms, the principles of hunting and archery, and much more. The activities of the program and the support of caring adult leaders provide young people with opportunities to develop life skills, self-worth, and conservation ethics.

The most successful youth programs are ones that are directed at the local level by volunteers. 4-H brings people together and promotes a spirit of cooperation. The Shooting Sports program fosters responsibility and helps youth acquire knowledge, skills, abilities, and develop social skills, leadership techniques, and gives opportunities for community service. Anyone can be a successful shooter! There are no limitations imposed by age, sex, or physical abilities, and shooting activities can last a lifetime

The University of Maine defines firearms and archery equipment as weapons and has a strict weapons policy for the safety of all, and for liability and insurance reasons, camp program participants are asked not to bring their personal shooting sports equipment to Bryant Pond 4-H Camp & Learning Center without prior authorization from the Camp Director or the Maine 4-H Shooting Sports Program Coordinator. The 4-H Shooting Sports instruction team at Bryant Pond is very familiar with the wide variety of equipment here and competently provides complete instruction in the shooting sports discipline programs that we offer.