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 as making homemade mozzarella and ice cream, and spinning wool. Notably, 55% of the participants tried fresh mozzarella and 85% spun wool for the first time.
Day Two: The group visited a major Beef Cattle Operation, where they learned about various equipment used in cattle management, including Artificial Insemination tools. The day continued with a visit to Blackfish Bison Ranch, where participants explored buffalo pelts, skeletons, and other related artifacts. Impressively, 95% of the youth reported learning new information about buffalo.
Day Three: The final day included visits to prominent Kentucky tourism locations in Eastern Kentucky. Participants toured the KY Reptile Zoo, gaining insights into the state’s reptile resources and the zoo’s role in venom extraction for research and medicinal purposes. A late morning snack of "ants on a log" (peanut butter, celery and raisins) received mixed reviews with 100% of the youth trying the healthy snack. Lunchtime was spent at Miguel’s, a local favorite, with 45% of the youth visiting the restaurant for the first time. Kate’s Petting Zoo was a fun way to wrap up the trip with youth having the opportunity to visit with goats, pigs, chickens and a variety of other animals.
Outcomes: As a result of the program, 90% of the youth tried new activities such as spinning wool and making fresh mozzarella. Additionally, 30% gained new knowledge about native Kentucky reptiles, and 100% visited a buffalo farm for the first time. This program was a collaborative effort with Robertson County 4-H and supported by the Kentucky 4-H Foundation Agriculture Mini-Grant program
