Osceola County Departments Partner with 4-H Geo Teams in GIS Contest

Osceola County, Florida - Osceola County Extension Services 4-H Club was a recent recipient of an Esri grant. The grant consists of geographic information system (GIS) technology and training to 4-H clubs across the United States and assists youth in their research of accurate geographic information to make decisions. GIS technology provides asset/data management, planning and analysis, and situational awareness.

"Osceola County 4-H teams recently put their new technology to use during the annual Osceola County KVLS Livestock Show and Fair," explained Eleanor Foerste, Extension Services Natural Resources faculty. "The teams were given coordinates of places to locate at the Fair by using clues to answer questions about Osceola County agriculture, 4-H venues and attractions at the Fair."

"We are excited about this new technology in the hands of our 4-H youth," said Extension Director Mary Beth Salisbury. "Future projects may include mapping invasive weed infestations and assisting Emergency Management with local disaster preparedness plans."

Esri has supported 4-H clubs with GIS grants since 2004. To date, more than 500 grants have been awarded to selected 4-H Clubs.

For more information about 4-H Clubs, contact Osceola County Extension Services at (321) 697-3000.

Photo:

L to R: 4-H Club members Tyler Ennis, Eileen Blanco, Kathleen Blanco, Devin Ennis, and parent Clay Ennis study clues and GIS coordinates at the Fair.