Identity area
Type of entity
Corporate body
Authorized form of name
Saskatchewan Indian Agricultural Program
Parallel form(s) of name
Standardized form(s) of name according to other rules
Other form(s) of name
Identifiers for corporate bodies
Description area
Dates of existence
1975-1995
History
Established around 1977, the SIAP offered opportunities for Aboriginal peoples to learn about and gain skills in the agricultural sector. The 4-H program in particular offered these learning experiences to Aboriginal youth on reserves, making Saskatchewan the only Canadian province to have a separate 4-H program for Aboriginal youth. Donor Les Ferguson acted for a long period as the full-time 4-H coordinator, supported by eight Agriculture Extension staff. Common youth projects included woodwork, foods, clothing, traditional arts and crafts, and firearm safety. The 4-H Garden Project, the 4-H Poultry Project, and the 4-H swine project were particularly popular. Approximately 100 4-H leaders would work with the program each year. Costs would be shared equally between the Indian 4-H Program and the families involved. The SIAP was also a major organizer of the Saskatchewan Indian Youth Conference.