Describe the Issue or Situation:
Youth involved in agriculture programs such as FFA and 4-H in Western Kentucky faced limited access to regional livestock competitions that could qualify them for state-level events. In addition to the need for competitive opportunities, there was also a growing interest in creating experiences that foster life skills such as public speaking, decision-making, and career exploration in agriculture. Many of these youth had never visited a university campus, making it difficult to envision post-secondary education as an attainable goal.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable):
In response, the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service partnered with the Murray State University Hutson School of Agriculture and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture to establish the KY Jr Livestock Expo – Murray, held annually each June at the William “Bill” Cherry Agricultural Exposition Center. The event provided youth with a comprehensive two-day learning and competition experience.
Day one featured a livestock skillathon, livestock judging, meats judging clinic, costume contest, and awards ceremony. These activities allowed participants to demonstrate and sharpen their knowledge in animal science, meat quality, nutrition, breeds, and communication. Day two was dedicated to the livestock show, where youth exhibited their animals in a professional show-ring environment.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience:
Approximately 96 youth participants from FFA and 4-H programs across Western Kentucky attended, along with their families. Participants ranged in age from 9 to 18 and exhibited a range of livestock including cattle, sheep, goats, and swine. Many of the youth were from rural communities with limited access to large-scale competitions or college campus visits. The audience also included ag educators, Extension agents, and university faculty members who provided mentorship and educational support throughout the event.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact:

After the event, youth and their families reported the following:

• Increased knowledge in areas of livestock evaluation, feed and nutrition, meat quality, and animal care through their participation in the skillathon and judging activities. 
• Improved confidence in public speaking and oral reasoning, critical components of livestock and meats judging.
• Youth indicated they were more likely to pursue a career in agriculture or animal science as a result of the exposure to professionals and the university setting.
• Families and ag advisors noted improved communication, decision-making, and teamwork skills in participating youth following the event.

Through this event, Western Kentucky youth not only earned qualifying experience for state-level shows but also gained valuable academic and career insights. The KY Jr Livestock Expo – Western Rivers has established itself as a cornerstone event that blends competition, education, and personal growth for the next generation of agricultural leaders.