MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas is blessed with the beauty of the plains and the prairie, but some in the state still dream about climbing a mountain or canoeing through a pristine river valley.

While such adventures might once have seemed out of reach for young Kansans, it’s not so any more. Kansas 4-H has teamed with the Boy Scouts of America to offer 4-H Venturers, a high adventure program for Kansas kids, said Pat Fultz, Kansas State University Research and Extension 4-H youth development specialist.

"Part of the appeal of high adventure is that it is just that – living in the wilderness can provide physical and mental challenges. Venturers learn self-reliance, decision-making skills, and usually become more self-confident young adults. They also learn the value of leadership and, at the same time, the importance of working together as a team," said Fultz, who is an accomplished camper and outdoor enthusiast.

The once-considered ‘trial’ program will mark its fifth anniversary this summer with a special opportunity. A nine-day canoe trip to the boundary waters on the northeastern border of Minnesota has attracted 48 4-Hers, Scouts and members of other youth organizations from 16 counties in the state.

The 14- to 19-year-old Venturers will travel as a group, but divide into six crews, each with adult mentors, to try out life similar to that of the Sioux and Chippewa Indians and early French Canadian explorers. They’ll canoe extensively, and study nature, natural resources, and the region’s history.

Participants in the program appear to be enthusiastic about it. Most are quick to sign up for the next adventure, said Fultz, who is planning a trek to Philmont Scout Ranch for the 4-H Venturers in 2002.

For more information about the 4-H Venturers Program, contact Fultz at 785-532-5800.