Massachusetts 4-H Contingency attends the 2023 Ag Day at the Massachusetts State House
Last week the 4-H contingency attended the 2023 Ag Day at the Massachusetts State House. The purpose of the event was to showcase agriculture in Massachusetts and the importance of the industry for the state.
The Massachusetts 4-H contingency consisted of young members who are passionate about agriculture and the values 4-H teaches. Hailey Fink and Delaney Kline from Barnstable County Leadership Club were excellent representatives for 4-H, sharing their personal experiences and opinions of the program. Meeting with legislators, both members discussed the impact of 4-H in their lives, the skills they’ve learned, and the confidence they developed. They also talked about legislation, Bill 447, which would allow for 4-H related excused absences from school. The contingency showed that 4-H is a meaningful program that provides great benefits for the youth of Massachusetts.
The 4-H contingency was also joined by MDAR Commissioner, Ashley Randle, and 2022 Future Farmer of America President. The group toured the exhibit halls, where they saw a variety of vendors displaying local food, farm produce, and agricultural products. They also had the opportunity to view exhibits showcasing Massachusetts farms, including the Massachusetts-Grown and Fresher Program, which highlights locally grown produce, meats, and dairy products. The event was a great example of the collaboration between all sectors of agriculture in Massachusetts.
The 2023 Ag Day event was a great success for everyone involved. The 4-H contingency played a significant role in this event, showcasing the impact of 4-H in the lives of young people across Massachusetts. The group’s tireless work and passion for agriculture and 4-H were evident in their representation. The contingency members show that 4-H is more than just an organization for kids; it is a platform for learning, growth, and self-development. We look forward to seeing more 4-H contingencies making an impact in future events and highlighting the importance of agriculture in Massachusetts.