4-H Stories....
Patrick Roberson
Patrick Roberson is a paramedic, farmer and freelance outdoor communicator from Pikeville, Tennessee. Following is his 4-H story:
Over twenty five years ago, I started out in 4-H in the explorer program. Over the next five years I attended several camps at Crossville, Columbia and Greenville. I met and made new friends that have lasted a life time. As my high school years progressed, I quit 4-H to devote my time to FFA activities since our FFA chapter was more active. After talking with my friends made at 4-H, I now realize that I missed out on many opportunities, which may still prove to be one of the biggest mistakes that I have ever made in my life.
Over the past several years I have become interested in 4-H once again as an adult leader, going to camp with my kids. Being a leader is ten times more fun than a camper! It is amazing how fast time goes by. Twenty-five years ago while at wildlife camp, Dr. Tom Hill was just starting to be a part of that camp with his farm pond management program. It was an honor to be able to go to wildlife camp this summer and hear Dr. Hill again, as this may be his last wildlife conference due to his retirement. I only wish that I had listened to his advice the first time. Maybe if I had, my farm pond would now have good fish instead of the millions of inch long bream that now swim in my pond.