Peter began his 4-H career as state 4-H Natural Resource Specialist and Director of Upham Woods 4-H Environmental Education Center for WI Extension in 1986. In 1989 he served as District 4-H and Youth Agent in the Mat-Su/Copper River District, Alaska Extension, developing a 4-H camping program and statewide teen leadership program. In 1994 he became state 4-H Fisheries and Natural Resource Specialist. Through grants of over $4 million, he expanded programs to reach non-traditional native audiences in rural Alaska. His efforts developing culturally relevant, innovative approaches to teaching science with natural resource education and health and safety were recognized as a model, enhancing and encouraging use of local knowledge.
Peter’ creative, innovative programs grew from ten sites in the early 1990″ to over 100 sites statewide. He was an early pioneer and advocate for youth as active participants, stakeholders and resources within their communities. Peter developed curriculum and taught courses involving fisheries, natural resources, youth-adult partnerships, teen leadership, cultural diversity, 4-H camp counselor training, volunteer leadership, ATV safety and 4-H shooting sports. He was State 4-H Program Chair 2004-2008. He served in numerous leadership capacities on boards and committees at community, state, regional and national levels promoting positive youth development. He continues to serve as a volunteer for district and statewide 4-H events and activities.
Extension 4-H Natural Resource Specialist and Director, Upham Woods 4-H Environmental Education Center, University of Wisconsin Extension. District 4-H and Youth Development Agent; 4-H Natural Resource Specialist, University of Alaska-Extension. PI for series of Youth at Risk projects serving rural Alaska 4-H. State 4-H Program Chair 2004-2008. Chaperone and leader for ” 4-H American Youth Leadership Program with Mongolia.”
