4-H Aquaculture Adventures

Program Overview

Hancock County 4-H and the Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research (CCAR) will be hosting Aquaculture Extension/4-H and CCAR Logo combinedAdventures, an experiential learning program for youth entering grades 7-9 (ages 12-15) in the Summer. Interns will meet once per week for eight weeks at CCAR in Franklin, ME. Interns will be immersed in a positive youth development setting where they will “learn by doing” with aquaculture experts at CCAR and beyond. They will be expected to perform daily tasks to care for a variety of aquatic species at CCAR while also working as a team to create a public presentation about aquaculture at the 4-H Exhibit Hall at the Blue Hill Fair. They will learn about sustainable aquaculture in Maine; gain management, technical, and core aquaculture skills; and practice leadership skills with the help of adult mentors. The program will include multiple field trips to aquaculture facilities in Maine. Space is limited to eight youth for this program.

Youth Expectations

  • Perform tasks necessary to care for living animals (animal husbandry, water quality testing, systems check, etc)
  • Enroll as Hancock County 4-H members (requires parent/guardian permission)
  • Come with an open mind and hands-on approach to learning in an experiential setting
  • Ready to work as a team player to complete a group project
  • Ready to participate in public presentations as a team
  • Be respectful and participate fully in the program
  • Abide by all safety regulations as well as CCAR and 4-H policies
  • Be available on Saturday, September 5 during the Blue Hill Fair (free admission)
  • Bring your own lunch