Success Stories

Preparing the Next Generation: 4-H Livestock and Horse Programming Builds Agricultural Career Awareness in Boone County

Author: Rusty Wolf

Major Program: Agriculture

Preparing the Next Generation: 4-H Livestock and Horse Programming Builds Agricultural Career Awareness in Boone CountyThe 2023 Cooperative Extension Needs Assessment for Boone County identified the sustainability of family farms as a top priority. With Boone County’s population increasing by over 50,000 people since 2000 and development rapidly expanding near the airport and surrounding areas, preserving the county’s agricultural roots has become more important than ever. As farmlan

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Boone County 4-H Livestock Judging Builds Youth Confidence, Communication, and Critical Thinking

Author: Rusty Wolf

Major Program: Agriculture

Throughout the history of 4-H youth programming, the development of life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and self-awareness has been a central focus, taught through hands-on, experiential learning (Boyd, Herring, & Briers, 1992). One activity that strongly supports these goals is livestock judging. McCann and McCann (1992) noted that livestock judging offers youth meaningful opportunities to develop these essential, real-world skills—skills that translate well into both

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Growing Leaders Through traditions -The 4-H Country Ham Project

Author: Cathy Fellows

Major Program: Agriculture

Few programs bring together tradition, skill-building, and personal growth quite like the 4-H Country Ham Project. This past year, twenty-three youth from Boone County participated in this unique and hands-on experience that connected them not only to Kentucky’s agricultural heritage but also to themselves.In January 2025, the 4-H youth began their Country Ham project by selecting and preparing a raw ham. With sleeves rolled up and curiosity in their eyes, they learned the precise steps of

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