4-H AL Water Watch Spotlight: Vanessa Roberts with DeKalb County Extension

By: Mona Dominguez and Emily Ward

Vanessa currently serves as the DeKalb County Extension Coordinator, however, she previously held the role of 4-H Youth Development Coordinator in Jackson County. While in Jackson County, Vanessa was actively involved with the 4-H AWW program for three years, where she provided hands-on environmental education in classrooms, organized water monitoring day camps, and led instruction for homeschool groups.

Vanessa teaches with the Enviroscape Watershed Model. Photo credit: Vanessa Roberts

Vanessa guided students in conducting bacteriological, water chemistry, and stream biomonitoring studies in various local water bodies, including Guntersville Lake and the Tennessee River. Her students consistently reported excellent water quality at these sites, reflecting the high standards of their environmental stewardship efforts.

Students conduct stream biomonitoring. Photo credit: Vanessa Roberts

When asked about student engagement with the 4-H AWW Program, Vanessa shared that the students were always enthusiastic and eager to learn. “They absolutely love it,” she said. She said that they’re fascinated by the aquatic life and the quality of water where these critters live.

A student shows off the clam shells found at the creek. Photo credit: Vanessa Roberts

Vanessa chose to integrate the 4-H AWW program into her educational outreach because she believes it is essential for students living in a county surrounded by water to develop a deeper understanding of their local environment. It’s important that they not only learn about the water but also appreciate and care for the resources that are such a vital part of our community.

Students exploring the creek. Photo credit: Vanessa Roberts

We are thankful for educators like Vanessa who have successfully adapted the 4-H AWW Program into their counties and schools!

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