Louisiana 4-H’er Dane Fontenot learned how to pin insects as part of the Pollinator Ambassador training. Photos provided by Esther Boe

Louisiana 4-H is preparing the next generation of pollinator experts through the 4-H Pollinator Habitat Program, funded by a grant from Corteva Agriscience and supported by the National 4-H Council. Through national and grantee-driven learning experiences, teen leaders were taught how to plan, install and work together to sustain pollinator habitats. Youth learned about their community and the resources it takes to plan and launch a project, as well as biodiversity loss, the importance of pollinators for food security and how to become catalysts for change.

In March, six Louisiana 4-H high schoolers attended Ignite, a four-day experience in Washington, D.C., focused on discovering their passions through workshops, career exploration and peer networking. Pollinator education was a key component, and youth explored projects they could bring back to their communities. All six Louisiana youth were trained as 4-H Pollinator Ambassadors and attended workshops which equipped them with the knowledge and inspiration needed to establish pollinator habitats in their communities.

During the summer, over 200 Louisiana fourth through sixth graders participated in the gardening education track at 4-H Summer Camp. Campers engaged in gardening activities, building essential skills in plant care and understanding ecosystems and the critical role of pollinators. Evaluations showed marked growth in campers' independence, responsibility and enthusiasm for new experiences. With support from the Corteva grant, campers also learned how pollinators, like bees, butterflies and birds, benefit from vegetable gardens and contribute to healthy ecosystems.

Campers explored pollinator habitat education, including lessons on the importance of pollinators in gardens as well as choosing the right plants and appropriate placement to support pollinator health. This was supported by collaborating with a gardening instructor, 4-H program coordinator, local master gardeners and various LSU AgCenter nutrition and horticulture extension agents.

The educational components of the program were an opportunity to learn about biodiversity preservation. Pollinators are vital for the reproduction of many plants, including those that produce fruits, vegetables and nuts. By creating and maintaining pollinator habitats, youth can help preserve biodiversity which not only supports the health of ecosystems but also ensures the availability of a variety of foods for future generations.

With training provided by the LSU AgCenter and Ignite, youth learned about biology, ecology and environmental science through the hands-on experience of establishing a pollinator habitat.

One of the greatest impacts participants experienced by planning, installing and sustaining pollinator habitats is the investment in their future. By taking an active role in the project, these young people made a tangible difference in their community and became role models for teaching others to ensure food security and protect pollinators and their habitats.

Using knowledge learned as part of his Pollinator Ambassador training, Dane Fontenot worked to establish a pollinator habitat at the Evangeline Parish LSU AgCenter Extension office.

During Ignite, youth participated in sessions, including one named Monarch Mania, to learn about pollinators.

As part of 4-H Pollinator Ambassador training, youth toured the Smithsonian Butterfly Garden in Washington, D.C.

The delegation of youth from Louisiana at the Ignite conference in Washington, D.C., included, from left, Aerwyn Fontenot, Dane Fontenot, Avery Fontenot, Jamie Langley, Alana Andrus and Jena Andrus.