Funding for 4-H Barn Infrastructure

The next generation of agricultural leaders will benefit from extensive improvements to 4-H barn facilities in Bible Hill.

Minister of Agriculture Keith Colwell, joined by Deputy Premier Karen Casey and members of Colchester County 4-H, announced today, Sept. 4, $50,000 for the renovation project at the Provincial Exhibition Grounds.

"Generations of young Nova Scotians have benefitted from many of the opportunities the 4-H program has to offer,” said Mr. Colwell. “Today's 4-H members will become the agricultural, business, government and civic leaders of the future, which is why I am pleased to support the ongoing renewal of the facilities where they learn and teach others.”

The funding will go towards extending each side of the barn to create outdoor pens and areas for washing cattle and replacing the roof, siding and doors. System improvements, such as electrical upgrades, are also part of the renovations.

“The 4-H barn, and investment in it, provides members with a venue to showcase their work to the public. This helps them gain confidence, pride in workmanship, and provides an opportunity to communicate about 4-H and agriculture,” said Angela Masters, co-chair of the 4-H barn committee. “In addition, the barn will be utilized for clinics, achievement days and meetings to enhance their learning experiences.”

The province has the largest 4-H membership in eastern Canada with about 2,400 4-H members and about 850 community volunteers involved in 85 clubs. 4-H is one of Canada's longest-running and most respected youth organizations, offering fun and learning for youth. The organization involves more than seven million members in 80 countries around the world.

More information about the Nova Scotia 4-H program is available at http://www.gov.ns.ca/agri/4h .