The earth is important because it sustains all living things… including us! In the Natural Resources project you can learn more about the web of life and how you can make a difference in the environment. Also, find out how you can obtain a career or hobby as you explore and learn in the great outdoors!
Show Your Skills
- Create a photo collage of natural resources in your neighborhood or community
- Conduct a science experiment about a natural resource (water, soil, etc.) and create a display to share what you’ve learned with others
- Compare types of natural resources typical in different states in the US or countries in the world
Service and Leadership
- Clean up your local park
- Plant a tree or native plant
- Remove invasive species
- Create a conservation poster
- Teach a workshop for a county 4-H program
- Teach at local Conservation Days
Entrepreneurship
- Upcycled product business
- Create and market a compost system
- Develop & design rain barrels
Technology Connection
- Create a YouTube video on any natural resource topic
- Develop a social media resource
Connecting with a Mentor
- University of Illinois Extension
- Soil and Water Conservation District
Events
- Overnight 4-H camp
- 4-H day camps
- Illini Summer Academies
- Envirothon – sponsored by Soil and Water
- Conservation Days
- Meetings of local outdoor activity clubs such as bird watching, canoeing, or hiking groups.
Project Manuals & Exhibit Requirements
- Ecosystem Services
- Earth’s Capacity
- Level 1: Hiking Trails
- Level 2: Camping Adventures
- Level 3: Backpacking Expeditions
- Step Into Nature
- Explore the Natural World
- Blaze the Trail
Purchase manuals on the Shop Illinois 4-H Store.
View exhibit requirements and scoresheets on the Illinois State Fair page.
Step Into Nature – Illinois 4-H Publication
Explore the Natural World – Illinois 4-H Publication
Blaze the World – Illinois 4-H Publication
You’re your Undies Challenge- USDA / NRCS
University of Illinois Extension staff that contributed to this resource include Peggy Doty, Jodi Baumgartner, Nicole Groezinger and Curt Sinclair
4-H Spark Sheets are a collaborative effort of 4-H staff, volunteers, alumni and teens from across Illinois. A big thanks to the many contributors and reviewers!