4-H Junior Master Gardener_^sm

Why does 4-H promote the Junior Master Gardener program?

Many of today's youth live in an increasingly urbanized technological society far removed from the simpler, agrarian lifestyles of past generations. Through learn-by-doing activities involving plants and gardening, children can increase their knowledge of the importance of agriculture and the environment.

Texas A&M University research indicates the following:

• Gardening as a group activity can be used as a socialization tool to learn leadership and volunteerism.
• Students who participated in this program developed responsibility for living things.
• Youth in this program increased compassion for people.

The Mississippi 4-H JMG_sm Program provides tremendous opportunity for the state's youth to do the following:

• Enrich and expand their minds through agriculture-based learning activities.
• Broaden their horizons by building character and knowledge.
• Relate to their agrarian roots through "get your hands dirty" activities.

The program has enormous potential to make a positive impact on the following:

• Environmental awareness
• Nutritional habits
• Horticultural knowledge
• Leadership skills
• Volunteerism
• Community involvement