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Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu

Impacts

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu




Fiscal Year:
Jul 1, 2024 - Jun 30, 2025


Success StoryBrains and Barn Boots: Succeeding with 4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon



Brains and Barn Boots: Succeeding with 4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon

Author: Jocelyn Kemp

Planning Unit: Hardin County CES

Major Program: Agriculture

Plan of Work: Enhancing Life Skills through Youth Projects and Activities

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

According to the 2023 statewide community needs assessment, the top two priority issues for Hardin County are the sustainability of family farms and the preservation and management of agricultural land. Preparing youth to address these long-term agricultural challenges is essential. Through the State 4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon contest, young people are building the knowledge and skills needed to make positive contributions to Hardin County’s future. The Hardin County 4-H Livestock Club has taken an intentional approach to expand its reach and support current members in thriving. In 2025, seven youth ages 9 and up—many of whom had previously competed at the 4-H State Livestock Skill-a-thon—continued to grow their agricultural knowledge and skill sets through dedicated training and participation.

To meet this need based on our top priority issues in Hardin County, 4-H volunteer and coach Michelle Patrick, led the county’s Livestock Skill-a-thon team, providing regular practices and high-quality instruction in areas such as feed identification, animal diseases, breed recognition, and equipment use. This hands-on, team-based learning approach allowed youth to develop critical thinking, responsibility, and teamwork—key life skills that align with the 4-H Plan of Work focus on enhancing life skills through educational projects and activities.

Seven youth ages 9 and older participated in the 2025 Livestock Skill-a-thon contest. The team included both returning and newer members, representing a range of experience levels. All participants were enrolled in the Hardin County 4-H Livestock Club and had an expressed interest in animal science and agriculture.

Following the program, 100% of participants demonstrated an increase in knowledge of livestock breeds, nutrition, and health management, as measured by pre- and post-program assessments as well as awards that were earned this year and years past. Additionally, 86% of the youth reported increased confidence in public speaking and decision-making skills. One participant stated, “I feel more prepared to help on our farm and explain things to others now.” Several youth expressed interest in pursuing future agricultural careers, contributing directly to the sustainability of local family farms. The continued success and expansion of the Hardin County 4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon team is a clear example of how targeted educational programs are cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders.  






Stories by Jocelyn Kemp


Hands-on Heritage: Learning Through the 4-H Country Ham Project

about 2 days ago by Jocelyn Kemp

The 2023 UK Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment revealed that Hardin County residents v... Read More


Food, Farming, and Community: Connecting Urban Youth to Agriculture

about 2 days ago by Jocelyn Kemp

In Hardin County, most youth have limited exposure to the local food system and few opportunities to... Read More


Stories by Hardin County CES


CYFAR (Children, Youth, and Families at Risk) Grant Supports Imagination Science Discovery Field Trip for Youth in Hardin County-Sept. 2024

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about 3 months ago by Chandra DeRamus

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Aquaponics Demonstration Reaches 4000 Students Utilizing a Train the Trainer Model at Two Sites

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about 3 months ago by William Crawford

Extension has adapted to todays financial realities through a number of strategies, including increa... Read More


Stories by Agriculture


East Kentucky Working Cattle Contest

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about 29 days ago by Kimberly Lane

Creating hands on learning opportunities is key for youth interested in agriculture. By allowing a s... Read More


Youth Roots, Community Fruits: The Blossoming of the 4-H Garden Club

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about 29 days ago by Lydia Gosney

Describe the Issue or Situation.Prior to this year, there was no existing garden or horticulture-foc... Read More