From 2007 to 2012 the number of farmers in the U.S. decreased by 4.3%. The average age of a farm principal operator has increased by 8 years over the last thirty years and there was also a 23.3% decline in operators that had been on the farm for less than five years. This shows a decrease in the number of new farmers and especially young farmers.(USDA Census of Agriculture) Kentucky has also had the challenge of finding alternatives to the mass exodus of tobacco production over the last decade. One of the alternative areas farmers and new farmers have turned to is livestock production.      

4-H has always been synonymous with livestock projects and livestock shows. Laurel County Agriculture Fair is the time of year students have an opportunity to show off all of their hard work throughout the year. In 2019 there were 37 youth participants throughout many classes, skillathon, judging clinic, and projects. These students have an opportunity to work throughout the year with their animals, increase their knowledge, and animal husbandry skills to bring them to a culmination this week.

The economic impact of this event and the education and promotion of the agriculture industry, with young people, in our community is imperative for the recruitment and retention of new farmers. One young member made a deal with a local soap maker to sell his goat milk on a weekly basis. He would not have the dairy goats if he didn't start showing these goats in the local fair. Without the continued support of the local community and state programs, premium money or other incentives would not be possible. We had over 25 volunteers this year that help plan, organize, and implement this program. We also had a former 4-Her that continued to give back to the program that worked with our livestock judging teams this year. We had 6 students compete at the state judging event.  Approximately half of the students participating in the county events also continue to be involved in district shows, state fair, and the North American International Livestock Expo. Since this events inception many of the students that participate in this event continue to be involved in agriculture in some capacity whether it be an owner operator, educator, or agribusiness long after their 4-H days are over.