Describe the Issue or Situation

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. In Laurel County, 841 farms are in operation. Youth who raise market animals learn how to raise wholesome and nutritious food as they take on the responsibility of raising an animal that will become part of the food chain. Animal-sourced 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 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.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

The Laurel County 4-H program focused on increasing animal science opportunities through clubs, competitions, and workshops. 4-H animal science project clubs offered included the Carrot Crunchers Rabbit Club, Poultry Pirates Club, and the 4-H Livestock Club which focused on beef, goats, lambs, and hogs.  Additionally, Laurel County served as a regional validation site for all youth needing to get KUIP tags for their show animals. In April, we hosted a cattle validation day which was followed by a small animal (hogs, goats, and lamb) validation day in May.

Extension staff served in an advisory role on the Laurel County Agriculture 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 and 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.

The committee worked to increase public interest in the Agriculture Fair by providing Ag-related entertainment options. The committee held a grease pig contest, a mutton bustin contest, and a vendor market throughout the 4-day fair.

The Laurel County Agriculture Fair's success relies heavily upon community partners. Partners include Farm Bureau, Farm Credit Midsouth, Benge Farm Supply, local FFA chapters, KDA, and local farmers.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

The Laurel County Agriculture Fair saw increases in all animal shows. The largest increase was the Poultry and Rabbit show with 102 birds and 64 rabbits.  Thirty-eight youth showcased their knowledge of livestock judging, oral reasoning, and equipment identification in the skill-a-thon. Those same youth each received three industry-based educational hours through the judging clinic. The Goat Show also saw an increase in participation with 43 goats. The Hog and Beef shows were moved to Saturday in an attempt to increase entries. While still small, the shows both saw more than a 200% increase in entries. Additionally, 79 non-animal exhibits were entered and displayed throughout the fair.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

According to an end-of-show survey (38 youth responded), youth reported increased knowledge regarding animal husbandry (92%), animal training (79%), and animal evaluation (97%). Youth also reported expressing their thoughts and opinions (76%), demonstrating a learned skill (95%), and practicing life skills such as responsibility (95%), time management (84%), and leadership (68%).