Released March 3, 2008
The College is well underway in its planning and preparation for the 2008 Ag Discovery summer program. Entering its 3rd year at UM, Ag Discovery is a resident camp for high school students 14-17 years of age that gives these teens a glimpse of some of the many career paths open to them in agricultural and environmental sciences. A national-level, competitive program, Ag Discovery is fully underwritten by USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Much of the program is directed toward those careers of particular interest to APHIS which include plant protection, biotechnology, animal care, wildlife services, legislative affairs, etc.
This year's program at UM will run from Sunday, July 13, through Friday, July 25. The UM program is one of six offered nation-wide. Those interested in learning more about the program and finding out how to apply should visit the USDA/APHIS web site (http://www.aphis.usda.gov/agdiscovery/). Ag Discovery is competitive - applications are solicited, received, and reviewed by USDA. Successful applicants will be notified in early May.
Among the topics past students have found most fascinating are the role of agricultural scientists in interdicting contraband at a major international airport and seaport, how professionals manage wild animal populations that live near sensitive sites, unlocking the secrets of plant genetics for the improvement of pest resistance, and more. Numerous field trips (National Zoo, National Arboretum, DuPont Research Labs, etc.) build on short, hands-on class and lab instruction in the sciences underlying each of these areas of professional endeavor. Add social and recreational activities and students find the two weeks a great experience, and for some, it is the experience which helps form their long-term educational goals.
AGNR becomes fully involved in Ag Discovery once the candidate selection process has concluded in early May. Until then, students or parents wishing additional information should rely on the USDA site link, above, for information.
Contact: John A. Doerr, jadoerr@umd.edu
