Marion County CES

County Emphasis:

Improving Profitability and Sustainability of Livestock and Crop Production

Concentration 1:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 2:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Financial Security and Economic Well-Being

Situation:

Kentucky’s animal production and management strategies encompass sustainable practices, health-focused care, and economic viability across all species thus contributing significantly to the state’s agricultural landscape. Beef cattle play a crucial role in converting Kentucky’s vast 7 million acres of pasture and forage into valuable products. CES focuses on sustainable grazing practices and ensuring optimal use of natural resources like land and water.

Kentucky is renowned as the Horse Capital of the World and is home to a diverse equine population, including thoroughbreds, stock horses, standardbreds, and other breeds. Kentucky’s horse industry focuses on breeding excellence. Many commercial swine farms operate in the state, focusing on efficient growth and high-quality pork. Swine farmers implement strict biosecurity protocols to prevent disease transmission and minimize stress. Kentucky’s small ruminant producers raise various sheep and goat breeds for meat, fiber, and dairy purposes. Small ruminants thrive on pasture-based systems, utilizing natural forage with a priority on health management, including vaccinations, parasite control, and nutrition.

Poultry is the number one agricultural industry in the state, contributing significantly to the economy. The poultry sector contains thriving broiler industry for meat production and laying hens for egg production. Many small flock owners raise chickens for personal consumption or local markets. Implementing conservation practices that protect soil and water resources will ensure the long-term sustainability of Kentucky farmland and improve resilience to climate variability.

To meet the needs of Kentucky animal producers CES Extension will create or expand its efforts to offer need-based education and producer-focused programming for all species. Current/future activities include introducing programs to address and improve specific management systems and introduce new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems for increased efficiency and profitability.

Youth Focus

Kentucky’s youth should have access to education and life-skills in animal production and management. According to the 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture, Kentucky has seen a decline in the number of farms and agricultural land, alongside a slight increase in the average age of producers and farm size. Successful operation of farms and ranches requires business skills, ongoing training and education, and safety awareness (USDA, 2024). The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Community Needs Assessment (2023) highlights key agricultural priorities, including youth life skill training, workforce readiness, access to affordable and nutritious food, support for the local agriculture industry, and promoting agricultural literacy among youth. 4-H projects in animal production and management can help young people develop life skills, learn about responsibility, and gain content knowledge about animals through breeding or market projects.

Youth Focus

Educating youth about plant production and soil science is crucial for the future of agriculture, empowering them to innovate and address current and future agricultural challenges. The National 4-H Council’s 2024 Index Survey revealed that 83% of youth enjoy science, 66% view it as a tool for problem-solving, and 62% are interested in science-related careers. The 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture highlights trends in Kentucky, such as a decrease in the number of farms, reduced agricultural land, an aging producer population, and larger farm sizes. Key priority issues identified by the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023) include youth life skill training opportunities, youth workforce readiness, access to affordable, nutritious food, support for the local agriculture industry, and promoting youth agriculture literacy. 4-H projects in plant production and soil science can help young people develop life skills, learn responsibility, and gain knowledge about these fields through horticulture, plant science, and soil science projects and programs.

Youth Focus

In Kentucky, economic uncertainty due to job market fluctuations and agricultural shifts impacts youth through unstable family environments and limited resources. Hospitality, retail, and tourism generated over $10 billion in 2023, with job growth in culinary arts, tourism, and hobby industries. The unemployment rate increased by 4.7% from July 2023 to July 2024. According to the Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023), priorities include building financial literacy and resource management skills, youth life skill training (e.g., leadership and communication), strengthening youth workforce readiness (e.g., entrepreneurship, business development), and engaging diverse and non-traditional youth audiences. America’s future relies on a ready workforce and engaged communities to tackle major challenges. Kentucky 4-H develops youth potential for lifelong success through essential skills in communication, leadership, and civic engagement. 80% of 4-Hers reported that 4-H helped them explore career options and 95% reported 4-H helped them identify things they were good at, and 50% reported 4-H helped them with college decision-making. 4-H programs equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to thrive in their personal lives, family lives, and communities.

County Situation:

Marion County has 955 farms with majority being row crops and cow/calf operations. According to the 2022 Ag Census, there were approximately 43,324 head of beef cattle in Marion County. With the rising age of the average farmer, young people are being more involved in the decision making on family farms. These programs were discussed among the agriculture advisory council to increase knowledge in implementing new guidelines and how to farm sustainably, maximize profits and improve the quality of life for farmers in our community. 

Long-Term Outcomes:

• • Increase the quality and number of animals or pounds of milk produced annually contributing to the increased and more stable financial position for producers.
  • Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods and species.
  • Producers are routinely implementing guidelines and recommendations for efficient and financially sound production demonstrating sustainable behavior change.
  • Continually implementing new technology and production practices.
  • Improve the quality of life of animals and humans.
  • Increase the quality of beef cattle produced annually contributing to increased and more stable financial position of cattle operations. 
  • Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods leading to enhanced production efficiency and reductions in the carbon footprint. 
  • Producers are routinely following Beef Quality Care & Assurance standards to produce healthy and high-quality beef. 
  • Continually adoption of new technology and production practices.

  • Increase the use of sustainable management practices by horse owners. 

  • Horse owners will be encouraged to apply best management practices for the care and management of their horses to help control cost of ownership.  

  • Increase the quality of small ruminants annually contributing to increased and more stable financial position of small ruminant operations. 

  • Increased financial literacy skills
  • Improved financial security and stability
  • Improved financial and economic well-being
• Increased sound financial decision making
• Implementation of financial literacy and resource management strategies/skills
• Increased savings (e.g., as a result of budgeting, saving, reducing debt, spending wisely, stretching resources)
• Increased access to community financial resources
• Strengthening financial literacy and well-being, including but not limited to, budgeting, spending wisely, saving, using credit responsibly, reducing debt, estate planning, fraud reduction, etc.

Youth

Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services. 

Youth will advocate for agriculture and sustainable fiber and food production in their communities. 

Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the agricultural community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.

Youth will have increased economic security.  

Youth will make sound financial decisions. 

Youth will have an increased rate of savings. 

Intermediate Outcomes:

• Annually implement strategies and production methods that result in increased efficiency, and number of animals produced /maintained, and animals harvested or pounds of milk produced.
• Increased biosecurity strategies that promote both animal and human health related behaviors for a safe food system.
• Increase or strengthen partnerships or relationships with commodity groups to address sustainable management strategies, health-focused care, and economic viability for all livestock.

• Annually evaluate how they care for and manage their horses using cost effective strategies. 

• Consider how they can use good biosecurity practices to ensure the health of their horses.  

• Youth

• Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.??

  Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.??

  Youth actively adopt and apply advanced agricultural practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the agricultural community.

• Youth will practice responsible consumer and financial management decision-making such as budgeting, actions on needs verses wants.   

  Youth will practice habits and skills that contribute toward sound economic and financial well-being.

Initial Outcomes:

Animal production and management strategies encompass but are not limited to sustainable practices, health-focused care, and economic viability across all species. Activities will include programs to address and improve specific management systems and introduce new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems for increased efficiency and profitability.

• Increase knowledge about sustainable and economically viable management practices.
• Increase skills related to efficient production methods across all species.
• Increase confidence in implementing new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems.
• Increase confidence in making decisions related to promoting animal health-related behavior.? 
• Increase intentions to employ financially sound behavior regarding production methods, use of financial tools, health-focused care, and the human-animal interaction.

Horses are kept primarily for sport and recreation. The majority of CES clientele can be placed in one of three general categories: 1) the new or first-time owner. These owners may have recently purchased a horse or have taken over full-time care of their horse, 2) Horse owners that have experience but are looking to validate what they do to make sure they are on the right track, and 3) the long time horse owner who is looking to improve management of their horses. 

• Horse owners will evaluate current practices and see where changes might be of benefit. 

• New horse owners can implement the management practices that fit their needs as new horse owners.  

• Long time horse owners can see the new technologies and management practices that may benefit their horse operations.  

• Improve management skills to improve sustainability and reduce cost of ownership.

• Youth

  Youth will explore their spark in agriculture. 

  Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture. 

  Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.

  Youth will expand life and work readiness skills in agriculture, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of agriculture.

• Youth will increase knowledge in understanding personal financial management. 

  Youth will aspire to make SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) economic and financial well-being decisions. 

Evaluation:

Outcome: Implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of small ruminant operation. 

Indicator: Number of participants that have made changes to improve management of their small ruminant operation. 

Method: Survey (post program) 

Timeline: Follow-up survey or records from individual consultations 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve sheep production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in knowledge and/or awareness of best practices for managing/raising small ruminants. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: Immediately after program participation.

Outcome: Individuals gain financial management skills for small ruminant operations 

Indicator: Number of individuals that participated in small ruminant financial management programs. 

Method: Survey or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: 

Outcome: Increased awareness of beef cattle quality assurance and care practices 

Indicator: Number of participants who obtained BQCA certifications 

Method: Post-program test 

Timeline: After program participation or online 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve cattle production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in their knowledge and/or awareness of management practices for improving cattle production efficiency. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: At the program 

Outcome: Implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of beef operation. 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported making a change to improve their beef cattle management practices. 

Method: Survey (post program) or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: 6-12 months after program 

Outcome: Increased livestock marketing knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who report increasing their knowledge of livestock marketing. 
• Number of individuals who implemented small ruminant financial management programs.

Method: Program evaluation tools/ surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

Youth

Outcome: Short-term

Indicator:

Number of youth who reported that they have realized the impact animal production has in daily life. 

Number of youth who reported that they have an interest in animal production. 

Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in animal production and management that fits their interest.   

Number of youth who reported that they understand animal production concepts and ideas.

Number of adults in the county 4-H country ham program.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Outcome: Medium-term

Indicator:

Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in agriculture to make informed decisions. 

Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in animal production based on their interests.  

Number of youth who reported that they used knowledge and/or skills gained in animal production to complete a project. 

Number of youth who reported that they adopted/applied one or more animal production practices.  

Method: 

Timeline:

Outcome: Long-term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: 1+ years

Youth

Outcome: Short-Term

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported increased understanding of the impact (or role) of plant production in their daily lives.

Number of youth who reported an increased interest in plant production and management. 

Number of youth who reported that they understand plant production concepts and ideas.

Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in plant production and management that fits their interest

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity

Outcome: Medium-Term

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and skills gained in plant production to make informed decisions. 

Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in plant production to complete a  project.

Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in plant production based on their interests.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year

Outcome: Long Term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.

Method: Survey

Timeline: End of program year or several years.

Youth

Outcome: Short term  

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported learning  the differences between purchases made for “needs” vs “wants” 

Number of youth who reported that they learned about budgeting. 

Number of youth who reported that they learned about savings.

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Outcome: Medium Term 

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported that they have identified  one or more jobs that might be a good fit for them in Family Consumer Sciences.  

Number of youth who reported that have taken steps to pursue gaining knowledge for a job in Family Consumer Sciences.  

Number of youth who reported that they have practiced budgeting skills.  

Number of youth who reported that they have practiced needs versus wants knowledge when making purchases on a budget. . 

Number of youth who reported that they have included savings in their budget.  

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: End of program year

Outcome: Long Term 

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey 

Timeline: 1 or more years 

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Sheep Producers 

Project or Activity: County-based sheep presentations 

Content or Curriculum: Presentation materials 

Inputs:

Dates:

Audience: Sheep Producers, Industry Representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Lambing school, grazing school 

Content or Curriculum: Course presentations & materials 

Inputs: UK sheep facilities, AFS Personnel and Specialists 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: BQCA trainings 

Content or Curriculum: State BQCA videos and chute-side trainings 

Inputs: 

Dates:

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Master Cattleman 

Content or Curriculum: Master Cattleman curriculum 

Inputs: Coordination with Beef IRM coordinators & specialists 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Bull Value Assessment Program (BVAP) 

Content or Curriculum: 

Inputs:

Dates:

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Artificial Insemination School 

Content or Curriculum: 

Inputs: UK beef facilities, local facilities and cattle, coordination with Beef IRM coordinator and Dr. Anderson 

Dates:

Audience: Individuals, Families, Employees

Project or Activity: Estate Planning

Content or Curriculum: Estate Planning publication series; Transferring Cherished Possessions curriculum; MONEYWI$E newsletter and podcasts;OneOp; Leader Lessons; farm succession and legacy building programs; etc.

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, farms, community centers, etc.

Date: Ongoing

Youth

Audience: Youth 

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Dairy Program 

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Livestock Discovery, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Holstein Foundation Study Questions 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Dairy Jeopardy (offered March each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Dairy Judging (offered each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Cow Camp (offered each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Dairy Shows (offered each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Equine

Content or Curriculum: Ohio State University (OSU) Horse Learning Lab Kit, Kentucky Horse Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Horse Reference Manual (Alberta 4-H), 4-H Horse Academy, Kentucky 4-H Horse Website 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?? 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Horse Contest (offered June each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Horse Show (offered August each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program 

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program Overview, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Rules and Guidelines 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?? 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Judging Contest (offered June each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Skillathon and Quiz Bowl Contest (offered each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Shows (offered each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Poultry Program 

Content or Curriculum: Pullet Project Guide (university of Kentucky), National 4-H Poultry Judging Manual published by Nebraska Cooperative Extension Service, Evaluating Egg Laying Hens (University of Kentucky), Standards for Scoring Placing Classes (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Giving Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Notesheet for Poultry Reasons (University of Kentucky), Criteria for Evaluating Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading RTC Poultry (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading Eggs (University of Kentucky), Examples of Different Grades of Broken Out Eggs (University of Kentucky) 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?? 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Poultry Showmanship (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Avian Bowl (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Poultry Judging (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Clubwork (Livestock, Dairy, Horse, Poultry, Rabbit, Dog, and Vet Science) 

Content or Curriculum: 

Livestock: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program Overview, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Rules and Guidelines 

Dairy: 4-H Livestock Discovery, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Holstein Foundation Study Questions 

Horse: Ohio State University (OSU) Horse Learning Lab Kit, Kentucky Horse Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Horse Reference Manual (Alberta 4-H), 4-H Horse Academy, Kentucky 4-H Horse Website 

Poultry: Kentucky 4-H Avian Bowl Manual, National 4-H Poultry Judging Manual published by Nebraska Cooperative Extension Service, Evaluating Egg Laying Hens (University of Kentucky), Standards for Scoring Placing Classes (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Giving Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Notesheet for Poultry Reasons (University of Kentucky), Criteria for Evaluating Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading RTC Poultry (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading Eggs (University of Kentucky), Examples of Different Grades of Broken Out Eggs (University of Kentucky), The Egg and I, Chick Incubation 

Rabbit: Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Project Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Rabbit Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) Standard of Perfection, Kentucky 4-H Rabbit Program Guide and Rule Book, 4-H Rabbit Program Overview 

Dog: Kentucky Dog Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Dog Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Kennel Club Website, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Rule Book, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Overview 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.??? 

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Program 

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Country Ham Meat Lesson Kit (University of Kentucky)

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.??

Dates: 

4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Contest (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: General Agricultural Short Term Programs (School Enrichment, 4-H Camp, etc.) 

Content or Curriculum: 

Any 4-H Curriculum 

Kentucky Ag and Environment in the Classroom, Inc. (KyAEC) https://www.teachkyag.org/ 

Kentucky Food and Farm Facts https://www.kyfoodandfarm.info/  

Kids Sonder: Agriculture Unboxed https://www.mommassonder.com/  

National Ag Day https://www.agday.org/  

National Ag and Environment in the Classroom https://agclassroom.org/ 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?? 

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Plant and Soil Science Programs (e.g., 4-H Land Judging Contest, 4-H Homesite Evaluation Contest, 4-H Horticulture Contest)

Content or Curriculum: National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Land Judging and Homesite Evaluation Publication, National Junior Horticulture Association Contest Manual)?

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.???

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.??

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.??

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.???

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?

Date: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Plant and Soil Science Projects?(e.g., fair displays and exhibit entries)

Content or Curriculum: National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Junior Master Gardener, National 4-H Gardening Series, 4-H State Fair Exhibit Factsheets, Extension Publications)?

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.???

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.??

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.??

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.???

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.

Date: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

Youth

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Consumer and Financial Education 

Content or Curriculum: Consumer Savvy

Inputs: 

4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  

Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 

Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association 

Clothing Volunteers 

Four residential camping facilities.  

Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  

Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 

Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  

Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  

Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  

Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  

Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs.

Date: September 1 – August 30 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Building a Healthy, Wealthy Future 

Content or Curriculum: Building a Healthy, Wealthy Future

Inputs: 

4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  

Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 

Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association 

Clothing Volunteers 

Four residential camping facilities.  

Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  

Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 

Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  

Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  

Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  

Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  

Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs.

Date: September 1 – August 30 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Reality Store

Content or Curriculum: It’s Your Reality 

Inputs: 

4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  

Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 

Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association 

Clothing Volunteers 

Four residential camping facilities.  

Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  

Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 

Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  

Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  

Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  

Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  

Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs. 

Date: September 1 – August 30 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Entrepreneurship  

Content or Curriculum: 

Be the E: Entrepreneurship, Level 1: Love It 

Be the E: Entrepreneurship, Level 2: Plan It 

Be the E: Entrepreneurship, Level 3: Do It

Inputs: 

4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  

Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 

Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association 

Clothing Volunteers 

Four residential camping facilities.  

Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  

Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 

Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  

Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  

Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  

Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  

Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs.

Date: September 1 – August 30

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Piggy Bank Contest

Content or Curriculum: 

Money Habitudes  

Building a Healthy Wealthy Future  

Jump$tart: Reality Check  

Money Smart  

Building Your Financial Future  

Kentucky Saves Week 

Inputs: 

4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  

Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 

Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association 

Clothing Volunteers 

Four residential camping facilities.  

Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  

Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 

Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  

Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  

Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  

Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  

Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs. 

Date: September 1 – August 30 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference

Content or Curriculum: 

4-H Major Study of Emphasis  

Money Habitudes  

Building a Healthy Wealthy Future  

Jump$tart: Reality Check  

Money Smart  

Building Your Financial Future 

Inputs: 

4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  

Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 

Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association 

Clothing Volunteers 

Four residential camping facilities.  

Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  

Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 

Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  

Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  

Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  

Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  

Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs.

Date: September 1 – August 30

 

Evaluation:

Outcome: Implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of small ruminant operation. 

Indicator: Number of participants that have made changes to improve management of their small ruminant operation. 

Method: Survey (post program) 

Timeline: Follow-up survey or records from individual consultations 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve sheep production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in knowledge and/or awareness of best practices for managing/raising small ruminants. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: Immediately after program participation.

Outcome: Individuals gain financial management skills for small ruminant operations 

Indicator: Number of individuals that participated in small ruminant financial management programs. 

Method: Survey or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: 

Outcome: Increased awareness of beef cattle quality assurance and care practices 

Indicator: Number of participants who obtained BQCA certifications 

Method: Post-program test 

Timeline: After program participation or online 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve cattle production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in their knowledge and/or awareness of management practices for improving cattle production efficiency. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: At the program 

Outcome: Implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of beef operation. 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported making a change to improve their beef cattle management practices. 

Method: Survey (post program) or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: 6-12 months after program 

Outcome: Increased livestock marketing knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who report increasing their knowledge of livestock marketing. 
• Number of individuals who implemented small ruminant financial management programs.

Method: Program evaluation tools/ surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

Youth

Outcome: Short-term

Indicator:

Number of youth who reported that they have realized the impact animal production has in daily life. 

Number of youth who reported that they have an interest in animal production. 

Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in animal production and management that fits their interest.   

Number of youth who reported that they understand animal production concepts and ideas.

Number of adults in the county 4-H country ham program.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Outcome: Medium-term

Indicator:

Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in agriculture to make informed decisions. 

Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in animal production based on their interests.  

Number of youth who reported that they used knowledge and/or skills gained in animal production to complete a project. 

Number of youth who reported that they adopted/applied one or more animal production practices.  

Method: 

Timeline:

Outcome: Long-term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: 1+ years

Youth

Outcome: Short-Term

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported increased understanding of the impact (or role) of plant production in their daily lives.

Number of youth who reported an increased interest in plant production and management. 

Number of youth who reported that they understand plant production concepts and ideas.

Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in plant production and management that fits their interest

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity

Outcome: Medium-Term

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and skills gained in plant production to make informed decisions. 

Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in plant production to complete a  project.

Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in plant production based on their interests.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year

Outcome: Long Term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.

Method: Survey

Timeline: End of program year or several years.

Youth

Outcome: Short term  

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported learning  the differences between purchases made for “needs” vs “wants” 

Number of youth who reported that they learned about budgeting. 

Number of youth who reported that they learned about savings.

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Outcome: Medium Term 

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported that they have identified  one or more jobs that might be a good fit for them in Family Consumer Sciences.  

Number of youth who reported that have taken steps to pursue gaining knowledge for a job in Family Consumer Sciences.  

Number of youth who reported that they have practiced budgeting skills.  

Number of youth who reported that they have practiced needs versus wants knowledge when making purchases on a budget. . 

Number of youth who reported that they have included savings in their budget.  

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: End of program year

Outcome: Long Term 

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey 

Timeline: 1 or more years