Extension
It Starts With Us
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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,
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
