Livingston County CES

Title:

Animal science education for adults and youth.

MAP:

Improving Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agents Involved:

4-H, ANR

MAJOR PROGRAM 1:

Beef

MAJOR PROGRAM 2:

Forages

MAJOR PROGRAM 3:

Beekeeping

Situation:

The 2007 Census of Agriculture reports that there are a total of 492 farms in Livingston County. The report also states that 36% of Livingston County farm income comes from livestock, poultry, & products.  Of the 609 producers, 150 describe themselves as new or beginning farmers.  The Kentucky Horse Council 2012 Survey indicates that 98 land holders owning 698 horses in Livingston County. 

Extension Office records show that the majority of farmers in Livingston County maintain pasture for their livestock. Many farmers in Livingston County also maintain forage fields for hay, and haylage production. It is important that these farmers have a better understanding about the nutrient content of their hay and pasture fields. With increased knowledge about nutrient values of their forages, combined with proper skills, local producers will be able to better manage their pasture and hay resources. With better quality forages herd health will be easier to obtain. The agriculture advisory council, along with clubs and clientele, have requested educational information on feed, vet care, pasture and hay production. Teachers have requested curriculum and lessons on agriculture for their 3rd and 4th grade youth. Animals Science and Horse SPIN Clubs utilize updated curriculum and agricultural events to enhance the value of their program. In addition producers have asked for information on general maintenance of livestock in Livingston County.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Animal owners will maintain a strong herd health and be able to confidently and effectively identify issues to stop disease and illness early. They will use appropriate feeding techniques to improve and maintain overall health and wellness of their livestock. Forages will improve in overall quality in the county. Youth gain understanding of the origin of food supply and how to maintain health of their livestock.

Intermediate Outcomes:

Adults and youth will have a better practical working knowledge of herd health programs. Participants in our programs will use better management practices in maintaining their hay and pasture fields. Livestock body conditioning scores will  proimprove overall in the county.

Initial Outcomes:

Youth and adults participate in Livestock / Horse College programs and other related educational programs through out the year. Youth obtain a minimum of six education hours per year in Livestock, Country Ham and/or Horse Projects. Youth set and achieve project goals annually. Youth are accountable for the health of their project animal. 

Evaluation:

Long-Term Outcome: Horse body conditioning scores will maintain at four or higher; beef herds will bring better prices at slaughter. The overall sheep and goat herd health will improve, resulting in more animals sold.

Indicator: Horse body conditioning scores and herd sale prices will increase.

Method: Collecting data at each event

Timeline: Six events per year, bi-monthly with the same horses

Intermediate Outcome: Number of head of livestock per-acre will increase

Indicator: Beef and sheep Sales & Quality Statistics

Method: Follow up interviews & Livestock Sales

Timeline: annually

Initial Outcome: Adults and youth learn about best practices for raising large and small livestock

Indicator: number enrolled in best practice classes

Method: pre and post test

Timeline: beginning and end of classes

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Livestock producers

Project or Activity: Livestock & Pasture management meetings

Content or Curriculum: Extension Publication and state specialist

Inputs: ANR and specialist

Date: Fall and Winter

Audience: 4-H Youth

Project or Activity: Animal Science Club Meetings and Livestock Skill-a-thon contest

Content or Curriculum: Ohio State Kit

Inputs: ANR,and Certified Volunteer Leader

Date: Monthly September through May each year

Audience: Livestock Producers

Project or Activity: Local Cattleman's Association

Inputs: ANR, Local Agribusiness men, and State specialist.

Dates: quarterly

Audience: Beekeepers

Project or Activity: Monthly Adult Beekeeper meetings.

Inputs: ANR, local Beekeepers, and state Specialists.

Dates: Monthly meetings

Audience: homeowners

Project: Lawn and home garden classes

Inputs: ANR, Local Gardeners, UK publications.

Dates: seasonally

Success Stories