LIBERTY, NY — Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County (CCESC)’s 4-H Youth Development Shooting Sports program is bringing its environmental education focus area to the next level by introducing a Trout in the Classroom conservation project for youth, set to begin in the fall of 2017.

Using an established curriculum, program leaders will work with youth to raise trout fish from eggs provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), for their eventual release into local waterways.

Throughout the duration of the project, youth will learn about ecosystems and watersheds, biology of fish, caring for fish eggs and fry, and the importance of conservation.

The start-up cost of equipment required for this project ranges from $1,200 to $1,500. For this reason, 4-H volunteers seek donations from the public to make this opportunity possible for a group of children eager to learn about conservation. With enough funding and interest, 4-H intends to make this an annual project in Sullivan County.

To help get this unique project off the ground, the public can visit www.sul livancce.org/donate. To participate, call CCESC at 845/292-6180 or email sullivan@cornell.edu.

Anyone ages five to 19 can enroll in 4-H for free. Additional donations for CCESC programs are appreciated.

The 4-H experience empowers youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults. Members have opportunities to connect to Cornell University, learn through hands-on activities, lead, be inspired, inspire others and “Make the Best Better.”