Engaging Youth in Aquaculture: Storytelling The Miraculous Journey of the Pacific Sockeye Salmon & the Epic Loggerhead Sea Turtle

Commodities

Practices

• Education and Training: mentoring

This grant proposal offers youth in the Midwest seeking hands-on agricultural and aquaculture learning opportunities a dynamic exploration of sustainable aquaculture, emphasizing ecological balance and watershed stewardship. Through hands-on activities and storytelling, students follow the life cycles of the Pacific Sockeye Salmon and the Loggerhead Sea Turtle migratory species, gaining insights into conservation and sustainable food practices through The Miracle of the Quail. The program integrates several works that connects youth, nature and spirituality. Through storytelling about figures like George Washington Carver, youth learn leadership, community engagement, and conservation practices, preparing them for agriculture and aquaculture careers.

Empower 20 students through hands-on aquaponics skill-building, enabling them to design, monitor, and manage small-scale sustainable aquaculture systems focused on water quality, fish care, and nutrient cycling. Facilitate participation in the Aquaculture Challenge to foster teamwork, creativity, and technical skills, while encouraging personal storytelling and Lakota Earthsong connections to aquaculture and conservation. Highlight careers through mentorship with STEM professionals and leaders, especially for youth interested in agriculture, aquaculture, and conservation careers. Engage students in creating mock business plans emphasizing economic and resource conservation. Host community events to showcase student projects, inspiring local support for sustainable aquaculture and local food initiatives.