Milam County 4-H Members Represent County at Texas 4-H Congress

Milam County, TX - Two Milam County 4-H members recently represented the county at Texas 4-H Congress, one of the premier leadership and civic engagement events offered through Texas 4-H. Riley Clinard and Luke Holcombe joined senior 4-H members from across Texas at the Texas State Capitol for a week of leadership development, civic engagement, and hands-on learning about the legislative process. Delegates served as members of the Texas House of Representatives during a mock legislative session, where they debated, amended, and voted on
bills authored by fellow 4-H members.

As part of the experience, both Milam County delegates researched, wrote, and presented original legislation addressing important issues facing Texas.
Luke Holcombe authored and presented a bill addressing water use by artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. His proposal focused on encouraging responsible water management as Texas experiences rapid technological growth while emphasizing the need to protect the state's valuable
water resources. Riley Clinard authored and presented legislation encouraging Texas agricultural producers to adopt water-saving irrigation systems and conservation technologies. Her bill focused on reducing agricultural water waste, strengthening drought resilience, and supporting farmers and
ranchers through responsible water stewardship.

By researching current issues, drafting legislation, presenting their proposals before fellow delegates, and participating in legislative debate, both students strengthened their leadership, public speaking, critical thinking, research, and parliamentary procedure skills while gaining a deeper understanding of how laws are developed.

"The Texas 4-H Congress experience gives our youth the opportunity to tackle real-world issues while learning firsthand how the legislative process works," said Milam County Extension Agent Micah Holcombe. "I'm incredibly proud of Riley and Luke for the time and effort they invested in researching their topics, writing meaningful legislation, and confidently presenting their ideas on the House floor. They represented Milam County with professionalism, leadership, and
excellence."

Texas 4-H Congress brings together senior 4-H members from across the state to explore government, citizenship, and public policy while developing the confidence and skills needed to become engaged leaders in their communities.
Milam County 4-H congratulates Riley Clinard and Luke Holcombe on their outstanding representation of the county and applauds their commitment to leadership, service, and civic engagement.

Texas 4-H is the youth development program of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, providing hands-on learning experiences that empower young people to become confident leaders and engaged citizens.

Milam County 4-H Facebook Page:
The Milam County 4-H has a facebook page! Please make sure and go in and LIKE the page to get information about Milam County 4-H! 4-H facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/milamcountyfourH 4-H Blasts will be posted on the page as well as contest winners, etc.

The members of Texas A&M AgriLife will provide equal opportunities in programs and activities, education, and employment to all persons regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity and will strive to achieve full and equal employment opportunity throughout Texas A&M AgriLife. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating