Importance of Program

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. The CEDIK Ag and Food Profile highlights that 32% of land in Laurel County is used by 955 farm operations. Youth who raise market animals learn how to raise food that is wholesome and nutritious as they take on the responsibility of raising an animal that will become part of the food chain. Animal source foods provide high-quality protein and key micronutrients essential for physical and cognitive growth and well-being. Having youth participation in 4-H livestock projects is vitally important to the future success of our agricultural industry as youth grow to take jobs and industry leadership roles. Additionally, 4-H youth participating in livestock projects results in the acquisition of numerous benefits and life skills.

Response

The Laurel County 4-H program focused on increasing 4-H participation in animal science by recruiting and training volunteer leaders to increase the number of 4-H animal science project clubs, workshops, and clinics. Four weeks before the state fair, a group of 4-H’ers expressed interest in the Poultry judging contest. Extension staff worked with youth three times a week to help prepare youth for the contest.

Extension staff served an advisory role on the Laurel County Agricultural Fair Committee. The committee is comprised of 4-H, FFA, and agricultural industry leaders and met routinely throughout the year to organize and host the Laurel County Ag Fair which is open to 4-H and FFA youth. The four-day Ag fair consisted of a Rabbit and Poultry Show, Skill-a-thon & Judging Clinics, District Lamb & Goat Shows, and Market Hog and Beef Shows.  The Ag Fair is a great way for 4-H to showcase the skills and knowledge they have gained by working with their animals.

Results

Active clubs increased from the single combined 4-H Poultry and Rabbit Club to six animal science-related 4-H clubs (Goats, Hogs & Sheep Club; Beef & Dairy Club; Horse Club; Barnyard Buddies Club for cloverbuds; Rabbit Club; and the Poultry Club). Membership in 4-H animal science-related clubs increased from 12 members to 84 members – a 600% increase in membership. Additional workshops and clinics were held to expose youth to a variety of animal science and animal judging topics.

The Laurel County Agricultural Fair saw a large increase in participation for the Rabbit & Poultry Show (616%) and the Skill-a-thon and Judging clinics (373%). According to an end-of-show survey (86 out of 95 youth responded), youth reported increased knowledge regarding animal husbandry (99%), animal training (97%), and animal evaluation (92%). Youth also reported practicing life skills such as responsibility (100%), time management (95%), and leadership (84%). Four youth participated in the Poultry Judging Contest at the State Fair. The Laurel County team took third place. 

“Showing my animals in 4-H taught me several life skills such as perseverance and time management while making life-long contacts with individuals who have the same interests that I do.” ~ Emma M.