4-H Livestock Program continues to have strong Community Support in 2020

The 4-H Youth Livestock Program is the largest animal science project area enabling youth to develop their interest in beef cattle, sheep, swine and other 4-H projects. Youth learn about selection, care, and feeding of livestock, animal health, and importance of good record keeping. Emphasis for these projects continues to be focused on life skill development.

In Greenup County 4-H Livestock is one of the biggest 4-H programs.  Due to 4-H Agent vacancy and COVID-19, the County Fair was cancelled and the Livestock Show and Sale was in jeopardy. Because of strong partnerships between the Greenup County Extension Service, 4-H Leaders, FFA, Fair Board, Fiscal Court, and Health Department, the shows and sale were able to happen for 2020 with a successful outcome that benefited local families.

This year’s events looked very different from years past.  The Greenup County Cooperative Extension Service followed COVID 19 guidelines developed by the KY Department of Agriculture.  These are the same guidelines that allowed livestock shows at the KY State Fair.

60 livestock projects were exhibited and sold in 4-H and FFA categories.  There were also six 4-H country ham projects sold as either livestock projects or for the 4-H special needs livestock project held at the Greenup County Fair. The special needs livestock project was started by a Greenup County 4-Her.  It focuses on allowing special needs students to interact safely with livestock and learn about Agriculture.

Overall livestock project participation numbers were down by half this year which is no different from the 2020 trends reported across the state.  One of our judges, Mr. Tolle said it best, “The numbers are low this year but the quality is high!”  

Total Livestock Animals Sold:                57

Total Ham Projects Sold:                          5

Total Ham Special Needs Project Sold:  3

Total Projects/Ham Donations Sold:    65  

Total Sales of Livestock & Ham Projects: $59,927.80

Total Donated Hams/Special Needs:       $1,150.00

Total Sales & Donations:                            $61,077.80