Biotechnology and You Workshop

On September 7 we held a biotechnology/DNA science workshop for 4-H agents, volunteers and others interested together with John Sedlacek and Kirk Pomper at KY State Univ. on the KY State Univ. research farm in Frankfort. The workshop features a presentation on understanding biotechnology, a DNA science demonstration, a crops tour and sweet corn tasting, a picnic, and a presentation on BT corn hybrids and related information. The sweet corn that was tasted included two types genetically engineered with BT proteins for insect resistance and a non-genetically engineered hybrid.

Two biotechnology related In-Service proposals have been submitted for 2006.

One of the In-Service proposals is to provide information to 4-H agents and others interested on holding biotech/DNA science related camps in their own counties or to take the lead on future state-wide biotech/DNA science camps. Topics Planned Include:

· introduction to basic biotechnology terminology

· ideas for holding biotechnology camps

· locations where they can get materials

· Overview of previously held camps

· instructions for holding a camp

· ideas for designing camps of different durations (i.e. ½-one-day, two-day or three-day camps)

· resources available to run biotech camps and topics

· survey for student evaluations of the camp

The other In-Service proposal is to provide information for Agricultural agents, 4-H agents and others interested on prospects of biotechnology providing value added products in Agriculture. Topics Planned Include:

· Introduction to basic Biotechnology & DNA science.

· Plant Made Pharmaceuticals, PMPs.

· High value chemicals, industrial materials and fuels from plants.

· Sustainable agricultural and renewable resource developments.