Last Saturday the Winston County Extension staff launched the newest 4H club to be introduced for local youth. The 4H Kayak Club met at Lake Tiak O Khata with very good attendance in 4Hers and volunteers. The club meeting started with an introduction to water safety, how to properly fit a personal flotation device (PFD), parts of a paddle, how to directional paddle, open-water reentry of a kayak, and ended with a paddle trip around the lake. It was a great time, and wonderful day to be on the water.
The Kayak Club will meet once per month and as the 4H slogan states “Learn by Doing” and that’s exactly what this club is all about. We will meet at pre-determined sites as recommended by club volunteers, introduce club members to a different aspect of kayaking each meeting, and then implement that lesson by actually doing what we learned in the kayaks on the water.
Club members will also be introduced to various types or styles of kayaks, as well as different venues to kayak, like local lakes, State Parks, Federal Refuges, rivers, even an in state kayak trip with the club.
Another aspect of the program, is club members will get to meet adults from different state and federal agencies that will explain watersport laws, and regulations, as well teach in depth lessons about kayak watersports. In addition, professionals and volunteers these 4Hers will be introduced to are great positive adult influences that will teach by example how to be good stewards of the land, water, and environment. Lastly, the 4Hers will be introduced to numerous educational pathways, and career options centered around environmental stewardship.
We’re expecting this program to be a great addition to our county programs. It’s already made splash in Winston County, and could even ripple to additional counties in the state. If you’d like your child to participate, or if you want to volunteer, just give the Winston Extension office a call.
The number is 662-773-3091, come and be part of 4H in Winston County where we’re “Making the Best Better.”
Lastly, a big thanks to the good folks at Lake Tiak O Khata for allowing our club to do our first program on the lake. On behalf of the MSU Extension staff, 4H Club volunteers, parents, and youth; we really appreciate your cooperation!
