Success Stories By MajorProgram FY2025Jul 1, 2024 - Jun 30, 2025
Agricultural fairs and related events
Author: Robert Amburgey
Major Program: Agriculture
Describe the Issue or Situation.Parents of young children struggle at times finding fun, safe and educational activities through the summer. There is also a need for kids to showcase their 4H projects and talents in a nurturing and productive way. Both of these groups can benefit from 4H summer programs that focus on healthy competition and recognition of their hard work and ways that 4H and extension can provide fun, educational activities during the summer that will help them becom
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Taylor County Fair 4-H Horticulture Enteries
Author: Kara Back-Campbell
Major Program: Agriculture
The Taylor County Horticulture Agent held three county fair project days for 4-Hers to create horticulture projects for the county fair. These projects consisted of hanging basket, annual container, vegetable container, herb garden, dish garden, house plant, and terrarium. In addition to these projects two day were set aside for leaf projects. Forty-one 4-Hers participated in these project days and as a result fifty-two projects were entered into the county fair in the horticulutre / natura
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Sow and Grow Class
Author: Samantha Gamblin
Major Program: Agriculture
Many students and adults don't know where their food comes from. Bullitt Lick Middle School, 4-H and the middle school agriculture educator piloted the Sow and Grass Class curriculum. During the curriculum, one of the lessons was break down global versus local foods. Students were engaged with the content because they know this affects them. Students put together fresh food boxes for their social action project. Students worked to address the problem of food insecurity in the community. Many
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From the Barn to the Future: Youth Shine at the Lawrence County Fair
Author: Maelyn Dotson
Major Program: Agriculture
At the recent Lawrence County Fair, the 4-H/FFA Livestock Show and Auction was a tremendous success, highlighting the strong, long-lasting partnership between 4-H and FFA. Local youth proudly presented their animals and 4-H country ham projects, developing valuable skills in animal husbandry, public speaking, and leadership. Community partners, including Farm Bureau, Lawrence County Fiscal Court, Lawrence County Tourism, and local meat shops, came together to bid at the auction, ensuring t
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Kentucky 4-H Poultry Program BBQ Chicken Camp
Author: Leslea Barnes
Major Program: Agriculture
This summer, Kentucky 4-H Poultry Program partnered with 4-H programs from Livingston, Lyon, Crittenden, and Caldwell counties to host a highly successful BBQ Chicken Camp. Aimed at empowering youth with essential cooking skills, the camp attracted 16 young participants who gained hands-on experience in grilling and food safety.According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, developing cooking skills early in life is a strong predictor of better nutrition-relat
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Madison County 4-H Country Ham Auction
Author: Julia Reid
Major Program: Agriculture
Madison County 4-H Country Ham Project Madison County 4-H is pleased to announce the Country Ham Auction this year was a major success! While we brought in more than $27,500 for the youth of our county, we also strengthened the community partnerships and instilled in the youth the importance of hard work! The youth involved in the country ham project are ages 5-18, and they cure two hams, give speeches at the county and state fairs, and call or visit local businesses to invite them to atten
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Youth Dive Deeper into Animal Science
Author: Samantha Saunders
Major Program: Agriculture
In July 2024, the Robertson County 4-H and Agriculture and Natural Resources programs hosted an intensive three-day day camp focused on Animal Sciences. This comprehensive program engaged 20 youth participants, aged 9-12, in a diverse array of topics including Sheep, Beef, Dairy, Kentucky Reptiles, and Buffalo.Day One: The program commenced with a visit to a local sheep producer, where participants observed the intricate process of sheep shearing. The youth then engaged in hands-on activities su
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Food, Farming, and Community
Author: Jocelyn Kemp
Major Program: Agriculture
Describe the Issue or Situation.Most families and adults in Hardin County have little to no experience or opportunity to learn more about the local food system or careers in Agriculture. A recent community needs assessment reported that 75% of community members who responded feel that youth in Hardin County need life skills training opportunities. Overall, over 74% of respondents identified the 3 top needs of Hardin County as agricultural based including sustainability of family farms, preservin
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Agriculture & Natural Resources Day Camp
Author: April Wilhoit
Major Program: Agriculture
In July 2024, the Fleming County 4-H and Agriculture and Natural Resources program hosted an intensive three-day day camp focused on Agriculture and Natural Resources. This comprehensive program engaged 21 youth participants, aged 9-12, in a diverse array of topics including Sheep, Beef, Dairy, Kentucky Reptiles, Buffalo and agriculture by-products.Day One: The group visited a local sheep producer, where participants observed the intricate process of sheep shearing as well as learning tips on ra
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4-H Council Helps to Continue Fair Tradition
Author: Misty Wilmoth
Major Program: Agriculture
When the continuation of the longest running county fair in Kentucky was threatened in 2019, the LaRue County 4-H Council stepped up to continue to offer 4-H and open floral hall exhibits, as well as all the traditional livestock shows. A fair committee was formed and the committee worked to recruit superintendents for each of the livestock shows. The 4-H Council took over the financial aspects of the exhibit and show premiums. Sponsors were also secured to help with the expens
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Agriculture & Natural Resources Youth Day Camp
Author: Staci Thrasher
Major Program: Agriculture
In July 2024, the Fleming County 4-H and Agriculture and Natural Resources program hosted an intensive three-day day camp focused on Animal Sciences. This comprehensive program engaged 20 youth participants, aged 9-12, in a diverse array of topics including Sheep, Beef, Dairy, Kentucky Reptiles, and Buffalo.Day One: The program commenced with a visit to a local sheep producer, where participants observed the intricate process of sheep shearing. The youth then engaged in hands-on activities such
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Pumpkin Jack: Cultivating Curiosity, Traditions, and Community in Owsley County
Author: Carissa Miske
Major Program: Agriculture
In the fall of 2023, Owsley County 4-H embarked on an exciting journey with the 4th graders at Owsley County Elementary. Each month, we introduced STEM-based lessons designed to engage students and foster a deeper understanding of science and agriculture. One standout lesson focused on the lifecycle of a pumpkin, featuring a special guest: "Jack," the class pumpkin.This hands-on experience began with the class receiving their very own pumpkin, which they affectionately named Jack. This
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Elliott County 4-H Livestock pavilion Addition
Author: Jacob Ison
Major Program: Agriculture
Elliott County 4-H Livestock has long been a great program for the youth in our county with around 20 youth showing rabbits, chickens, sheep, goats, hogs, and cattle. The livestock program teaches participants how to successfully and responsibly raise a marketable livestock product and the hard work and dedication it takes to do so. The Elliott County Livestock Club is not just about show day. Each youth participating must attend and complete 6 educational credit hours throughout
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4-H Country Ham Project
Author: Regina Browning
Major Program: Agriculture
The 4-H Country Ham Project is one of the most unique 4-H activities offered through Kentucky 4-H. Youth are taught a heritage skill that is a tradition in our state. They are also required to give a speech about a related topic at the Kentucky State Fair. This creates an opportunity to enhance their communication skills. Over 1000 youth enrolled in the project in 2024, including 28 youth in Shelby County.The Shelby County 4-H Agent serves on the Country Ham Committee which ov
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Agriculture Education for Campbell County Youth
Author: Kellsey Agnew
Major Program: Agriculture
Campbell County Extension has taken on the task of educating our young people about the value of agriculture through the program “Grow It, Eat It, Wear It.” In a county where many young people may never have the opportunity to step foot on a farm, we must take action to provide our youth with a chance to learn how important our agriculture community is. This year in collaboration with the Alexandria Fair board, the Campbell County Farm Bureau, Campbell County FFA, Campbell Coun
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4-H Farm Field Day
Author: Ashley Duvall
Major Program: Agriculture
The Clinton County 4-H Farm Field Day was more than just an educational outing; it served as a vital platform for sparking interest in agriculture among young students. By engaging with both youth and adult leaders at various educational stations, students gained firsthand knowledge about the intricacies of farm life, from understanding the care of farm animals to learning about the machinery that supports farming operations. The experience offered a unique, interactive approach to agricul
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Seeds of Inspiration: A Memorable Day at Lewis County's Youth Agriculture Field Day
Author: Lorin Fawns
Major Program: Agriculture
In the heart of Lewis County, the annual Youth Agriculture Field Day unfolded, celebrating the vibrant spirit of local youth and honoring the memory of Phillip, a beloved community member who had a deep passion for agriculture. Third graders from all over the county gathered for a day filled with hands-on activities that ignited their curiosity and love for the land.The day began with laughter and excitement as students lined up to milk a cow, their faces lighting up with every squirt of fresh m
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4-H Country Ham Project
Author: Wade Raymer
Major Program: Agriculture
The 4-H Country Ham Project gives youth the opportunity to learn the time honored tradition of curing a country ham. By participating in this value added project, youth also learn the process, history and science of food preservation. They also develop and practice communication skills by writing and presenting a speech at the county level and at the Kentucky State Fair.For eight months, 4-H members throughout the state prepare their hams for the state fair competition. At the fair, hams are jud
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Stanton Elementary Agriculture Club
Author: Emilee Bryant
Major Program: Agriculture
Teachers at Stanton Elementary identified a need for Agriculture education and programming at the K-5 level, which is currently not offered by the school district. In partnership with teachers, as well as the Partners for Rural Impact grant, 4-H was able to begin an afterschool agriculture club for interested students. The club members meet weekly after-school. Two separate clubs are offered, one for K-2 grade and one for 3-5 grade to differentiate learning content. Club
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Success at the Kentucky State Fair
Author: Cathy Toole
Major Program: Agriculture
The Kentucky State Fair is a culminating event of yearly 4-H project work. Project work is defined by including the following: “(a) Planned work in an area of interest to the 4-H member, (b) Guided by a 4-H adult volunteer who is the project leader, (c) Aimed at planned objectives that can be attained and measured, (d) Summarized by some form of record keeping, and (e) A minimum of six hours of project instruction” (National 4-H Council, 2013). In 2024, Kentucky 4-H members exhibited
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4-H Animal Science Projects Shine at Agriculture Fair
Author: Elizabeth Easley
Major Program: Agriculture
Describe the Issue or Situation According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, most Americans are three generations removed from the farm, and only 2% of the population are involved in farming. In Laurel County, 841 farms are in operation. Youth who raise market animals learn how to raise wholesome and nutritious food as they take on the responsibility of raising an animal that will become part of the food chain. Animal-sourced foods provide high-quality protein and key micronutrients es
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Investing in our Youth
Author: Dana Anderson
Major Program: Agriculture
Youth Investment ProgramsTeaching youth entrepreneurial skills is not taught in the traditional school classroom today. To equip our youth, we offered them the opportunity to sell their 4-H/FFA market livestock and country hams at Mercer County Investment in Youth Sale. The program's objectives are to learn how to engage in a contract and understand their requirements to participate in the sale. An integral part of the program is youth are creating a networking system. The participants are r
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Promoting Local Farms & 4-H through the Allen County Farm to Fork Program
Author: Anna Meador
Major Program: Agriculture
Eating local isn’t just a fashionable trend. By eating local farm produce and animal products, consumers may just find a positive correlation for improved health, nutrition, personal finances and even a positive impact in your community by financially supporting local farms. For a second year, Allen County Cooperative Extension Service partnered with local farmers, Extension Volunteers and the 4-H Program to host our Annual Farm to Fork Event. “The Kentucky Proud Fa
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Hands On Is The Best for Ag Ed
Author: Mary McCarty
Major Program: Agriculture
Menifee County, with its rural charm and population of 6200, might seem like a place where everyone knows where their food comes from. However, the reality is different. In 2011, according to the Ag Daily, 72% of the United States of America's population knew nothing or a little bit about farming and ranching. These statistics underscore the urgent need for Ag education, even in rural counties like ours. The importance of Ag education cannot be overstated, but it is a vital part of our
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Ag & You Day
Author: Candice Hollingsworth
Major Program: Agriculture
With just over five percent of the population of Shelby County involved in agricultural production, there is a growing disconnect in the understanding of how food is produced and how it reaches the consumer. To help bridge this gap, Ag & You Day was offered to 5th graders in the Shelby County School system.The Shelby County Extension Office partnered with our local Soil Conservation, Farm Bureau and the Shelby County Public School system to plan and coordinate Ag & You Day to 506 5
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4-H/FFA Investment in Youth Sale
Author: Catherine Weaver
Major Program: Agriculture
The Jessamine County 4-H and FFA Investment in Youth Livestock Sale began in 2004 and continues to be the highlight for our livestock exhibitors each year. The 2024 Jessamine County 4-H and FFA Investment in Youth Livestock Sale was our 21st sale and a huge success once again. 44 youth offered goats, hogs and country hams - for sale as completion of their 2024 project. Our first year, we had 10 consigners in the sale, so as you can see, we have grown a great deal. This event is strongly communit
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Ag. Safety Day
Author: Amanda Sublett
Major Program: Agriculture
Healthy living is one of three 4-H mission mandates and encompasses: physical activity, personal safety, mental health, addiction prevention, and diversity and inclusion. Every 4th grader in Marion County learned about various aspects of safety at the Progressive Agriculture Farm Safety Day in October of 2024. The program is a partnership between 4-H, the Extension Office and the school Family Resource Centers and reached 284 youth. An additional 40 teen youth participated as group lea
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Farm Safety Day
Author: Ashley Norton
Major Program: Agriculture
Every 3 days a child dies in an agriculture-related incident and every day at least 30 children are seriously injured. Hardin County is a very agriculture-based community where children encounter the dangers of agriculture life, and it is vital to educate the youth of the county to safely interact with farming equipment, ATVs, animals and plants. Farm Safety Day is an event that teaches elementary students grades 3-5 in Hardin County the importance of being safe in their community, at home and o
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Livestock Safety at Youth Safety Day
Author: Nicole Rhein
Major Program: Agriculture
There are approximately 13, 600 head of cattle in Marshall County (USDA National Agriculture Statistics Service.) It is common knowledge that cattle and other large livestock often escape their enclosures but few members of the general population know how to safely interact with these escaped livestock. Many adults and children lack experience with large animals, having never been around livestock. A large number of those who have have experience with livestock, only have experience with large a
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Youth Ag & Safety Day
Author: Nolan Pettit
Major Program: Agriculture
Every year, one of my biggest events is our McLean County Youth Ag & Safety Day. We bring in all the 4th grade students from each elementary school from across the county to our park. We have several community members who are involved in agriculture to come and speak with the children at each booth. While most of our vendors are directly related to agriculture, we also invite local first responders to speak about the dangers involved with being around farm equipment that might be easily acce
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Agriculture Safety Day
Author: Jeremiah Johnson
Major Program: Agriculture
In the most recent community needs assessment residents of Christian County determined that there was a need for increased agricultural and natural resources literacy. Through educational programs youth of Christian County are able to see various hazards related to agricultural work and learn how to overcome those situations and avoid dangerous situations. Through partnerships with local agencies, you were able to go through various stations related to electricity safety, ATV safety,
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County Fair
Author: Brianna Barnes
Major Program: Agriculture
Describe the Issue or Situation.The situation involves youth participants in a county fair, where they have spent the year caring for and training their 4-H animal projects. The county fair is a significant event for these young individuals, providing them with an opportunity to showcase their hard work, skills, and knowledge gained throughout the year. It is a time for them to demonstrate their commitment to animal care, agriculture, and personal growth.At the fair, the youth compete for variou
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Stockman's College
Author: Corinne Belton
Major Program: Agriculture
According to a study initiated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Purdue University regarding employment opportunities for Animal Science graduates, results show that there were more than 57,900 annual job openings for new graduates between 2015 and 2020, and some 35,400 qualified graduates available each year for these positions resulting in a shortage. Youth livestock programs teach 4H members the value of hard work, commitment, responsibility, and valuable animal husbandry
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Youth Ag Days
Author: Heather Coleman
Major Program: Agriculture
Floyd County Extension hosted our first ever Youth Ag Days. 170 students in third and fourth grade attend. During their day the students rotated through three different lessons. During the Honeybee lesson led by the 4-H Agent, Beekeeper Association President Mike Hackworth and member Chris West, youth learned the importance of honeybees and why they are important to our food system and how to become a beekeeper. They were able to try four types of honey. During their second se
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4-H Country Ham Project
Author: Michael Rose
Major Program: Agriculture
Adair County 4-H members have again proven their dedication to agricultural traditions and public speaking skills. This year's 4-H Country Ham Project has not only instilled valuable life skills in these young individuals but has also strengthened their connection to their agricultural heritage. By participating in this project, they have gained a deeper appreciation for the time, effort, and expertise required to produce a high-quality country ham.Thirty-seven dedicated 4-H members from Ada
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4-H Country Ham Project
Author: Misty Wilmoth
Major Program: Agriculture
The 4-H country ham project has involved two-hundred and thirty-seven youth participants in LaRue County over the past twelve years. With interest in the country ham project, grant money was secured in the amount of $1,000 from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation and $2,500 from Agriculture Development Funds to build a ham house in LaRue County for project participants to use. All participants are required to present their ham speech at the county level for competition. This has helped them
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Grow It, Eat It, Wear It Program teaches youth about agriculture
Author: Owen Prim
Major Program: Agriculture
The amount of farmland in Campbell County continues to decline each year. The majority of Campbell County citizens live in urban communities. This increasing population has limited understanding or appreciation for the importance of agriculture in our daily lives. To address this issue, the Campbell County Cooperative Extension Service developed an agriculture awareness program called “Grow It, Eat It, Wear It” that targets fifth grade students.Campbell County yout
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Livestock members gain life skills
Author: Owen Prim
Major Program: Agriculture
With the number of farms and acres of farmland in Campbell County decreasing each year, the general public’s appreciation for and understanding of animal agriculture is decreasing also. This makes the task of educating our youth about animal agriculture and the benefits and life skills that can be gained from 4-H Animal Projects even more important. Livestock Projects are some of the longest-running and easily identifiable aspects of 4-H. These projects range in al
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Spencer County Ag Day
Author: Mollie Tichenor
Major Program: Agriculture
Children need to learn about agriculture to understand where their food comes from and appreciate the importance of farming in providing sustenance. It also helps them develop a deeper connection to the environment and learn about the challenges and opportunities in the agricultural industry, which is crucial for sustainable food production and environmental stewardship.The Spencer County Cooperative Extension Service, along with school administration and staff from the two elementary schools, s
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Shelby County Stockman's College
Author: Regina Browning
Major Program: Agriculture
According to a study initiated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Purdue University regarding employment opportunities for Animal Science graduates, results show that there were more than 57,900 annual job openings for new graduates between 2015 and 2020, and some 35,400 qualified graduates available each year for these positions resulting in a shortage. Youth livestock programs teach 4H members the value of hard work, commitment, responsibility, and valuable animal husbandry
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4-H Country Ham Program Encourages Agriculture Education and Public Speaking Skills
Author: Staci Thrasher
Major Program: Agriculture
The 4-H County Ham Project offers youth the opportunity to apply scientific principles, develop leadership and communication skills, and invest in their future. Participants gain knowledge in microbiology and food safety as they prepare green hams for curing. Those entering competitions conduct research and deliver written and oral presentations on topics such as proper curing methods, insect control, storage and cooking techniques, the history of country hams, and the construction of ham houses
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Madison County Extension's Farm, Home, & Garden Expo
Author: Julia Reid
Major Program: Agriculture
Madison County Farm, Home, and Garden Expo Success StoryMadison County Extension Agents want and need to bring attention and awareness to the local community to keep Extension from being the "Best Kept Secret." Madison County Extension Council decided to host an event that will help bring attention and awareness to the unique resources available through the Madison County Extension Office.The Madison County Extension Farm, Home, and Garden Expo utilized various venues for outreach to s
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Middle School Ag literacy
Author: Trever Cole
Major Program: Agriculture
With ever growing disconnect between consumers and the processes to grow the food they consume, Ag literacy has become more important than ever. For the Middle school i have partnered with the Agriculture teacher there to offer hands on learning to the class ranging from ear tagging demonstrations to using KY Kate to demonstrate how a cow is milked with accompanying insight into the dairy industry. Through this the classes have demonstrate an initial increase in level of agricultural understandi
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Stockman's College 2024
Author: Candice Hollingsworth
Major Program: Agriculture
According to a study initiated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Purdue University regarding employment opportunities for Animal Science graduates, results show that there were more than 57,900 annual job openings for new graduates between 2015 and 2020, and some 35,400 qualified graduates available each year for these positions resulting in a shortage. Youth livestock programs teach 4-H members the value of hard work, commitment, responsibility, and valuable animal husbandr
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Kenton County 4-H’s Progressive Agriculture Safety Day Draws 30 Youth
Author: Anna Meyers
Major Program: Agriculture
According to the National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety, agriculture related incidents injure about 33 children a day and claim the life of one child every three days. And while much of Kenton County is urban, “Kentucky: By the Numbers” reports that 28% of land is still considered rural, and that Kenton County is home to 453 farms and the families who live on and work them (Zimmerman and McAlister, 2024). This means a considerable portion of Ken
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Community Garden Club
Author: MacKenzie Preece
Major Program: Agriculture
School Gardens Cultivate Growth in Franklin County ClassroomsAcross the nation, school gardening programs are sprouting up at an unprecedented pace. According to the USDA Farm to School Census, these programs are becoming a staple in education, fostering a range of benefits for students. Research highlights that engaging youth in gardening not only encourages healthier eating habits but also improves mental and physical health, fosters awareness of agricultural and horticultural careers, strengt
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Marion Country Ham Days and the 4-H Country Ham Project
Author: Amanda Sublett
Major Program: Agriculture
The 4-H Country Ham Project teaches youth about food production and Kentucky’s rich history with country ham. Marion County is home to the Marion County Country Ham Days, so the project has a deeper connection with our kids and community. 24 kids signed up to participate in the 2024 Country Ham Project. We have a smaller ham house so this was the maximum number of participants. Each year during the week of Ham Days, youth in the project can choose to enter their ham in the judgi
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4-H Livestock Club Members Gained Valuable Skills and a Love for Agriculture
Author: Lee Ann McCuiston
Major Program: Agriculture
Describe the Issue or Situation.In 2024, the 4-H Livestock club grew from one member to ten under the leadership of a newly recruited 4-H livestock club leader. In addition, the Extension Office built a brand new livestock/horse arena beside the new office. When these two items merged, a connection to agriculture happened for 10 Todd County youth and their families. Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).Livestock club members showed sheep
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4-H Horticulture Club
Author: Jessica Hopkins
Major Program: Agriculture
The Harrison County 4-H program is very active and provides opportunities for youth to learn about many different aspects of agriculture and family and consumer sciences. At the beginning of 2017 there were 184 student enrolled in 4-H and approximately 140 were active in 4-H special interest groups in the county. Seeing that there were many programs offered but none of them were directed toward horticulture, the Harrison County Horticulture Agent saw a need for a 4-H Horticulture Clu
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