Students within the High Plains Underground Water Conservation District (HPWD) service area are encouraged to submit applications for the 2018-2019 Texas 4-H Water Ambassadors program.  Deadline for submissions is May 20.
 
Each year, high school age youth are selected to join the program which provides knowledge about management of water resources in Texas.
 
“HPWD is proud to be among the supporters of the Texas 4-H Water Ambassadors program.  This is a great opportunity to mentor future water leaders for our state,” said Carmon McCain, HPWD Information/Education Supervisor.  HPWD provided grant funding for the program, which began in 2017.
 
Those chosen will participate in a summer 4-H2O Youth Leadership Academy.  This tour, set for July, allows students to meet with statewide water professionals and observe conservation practices.  The group will visit the HPWD office in Lubbock during their tour of the Panhandle-South Plains region.  In addition, the students will view rainwater harvesting installations at Samuel Jackson, Inc. in Lubbock and Bob Durham's ranch at Abernathy.
 
A leadership, mentorship, and community service component is included as part of the program. Texas 4-H Water Ambassadors commit to a minimum of 40 hours of service during a 12-month period. This is earned by presenting water education programs to local 4-H clubs, schools, fairs, and other community events.  In addition, the students may also assist their local water utilities, groundwater conservation districts, and County Extension Agents in their water outreach programs.
 
Applicants must be 14 years old as of Aug. 31, 2018 and must be entering the 9th, 10th, or 11th grade in the upcoming 2018-2019 academic year. A short essay and letters of reference are required.
 
There is a $250 participation fee due by June 20. Applicants do not have to be a current member of Texas 4-H, but must agree to become a 4-H member and pay a $25 annual membership fee, if selected.
 
Visit https://texas4-h.tamu.edu/projects/water/ for applications and other program information.  Questions should be directed to David W. Smith at (979) 862-1989. He may also be reached by email at davidsmith@tamu.edu