By Staff Report
Recently, students from Holmes County High had the opportunity to participate in 4-H school programming that centered around the Alligator Management Program with MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife.
Holmes County 4-H Agent Chris Lauen partnered with teachers Dylan Skinner and John Walton to provide a hands-on learning activity for students that wanted to learn more about the alligator permitting process, tools for harvest, and other aspects revolving around gators.
The gators had been harvested and tagged the night before as part of the annual Statewide Alligator Harvest Program.
Students learned about typical growth rates, predation, average clutch size, and how the ambient temperature can ultimately affect the gender of the alligator hatchling.
Students even helped gather data (gender, length, tail girth) that was provided to state biologists that oversee the Alligator Management Program.
‘This programming supports ongoing efforts within county schools to promote hunter’s safety certification, conservation, and environmental education,’ a statement from the 4-H program said.
KINSLEY COOK 
NATALIE HOLTON 