An environmental science career exploration trip and tour with the Army Corps of Engineers fascinated eighteen 4-H youth from various central Illinois counties on Monday. 4-H youth from Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery Counties explored Melvin Price Locks and Dam. The group was led by Extension 4-H Staff, Jessica Jaffry, Kate Harding, and Taylor Pope.
Youth participants met with environmental science professionals for career advice and discussion. The participants heard from Corrinne O’Brien, Travis Smith, and Tom Lytle who all shared their position duties and responsibilities, education and experience requirements, career pathways, and advancement opportunities.
Following the career discussions, youth participated in a tour including learning about the way the river flows, the role of the locks and dam with navigation, and how to preserve wildlife, water, and the surrounding community. Park Ranger, Travis Smith shared the integral work each staff member performs while operating the dam.
The University of Illinois Extension provides practical education that helps people, businesses, and communities solve problems, develop skills, and build a better future. For more information visit go.illinois.edu/cjmm or contact the Christian County Extension Office at 217-287-7246. You can also email Taylor Pope, 4H Youth Development Program Coordinator at tpope4@illinois.edu.
