Author: Levi Berg
Planning Unit: Clark County CES
Major Program: Agriculture
Plan of Work: Henry County Livestock Production
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
Henry County is a large livestock production county which over $14,000,000 worth of livestock sales (2017 Agricultural Census), and youth are becoming more involved with livestock stocking. The Henry County Extension Office along with the New Castle Lion's Club wanted a way to for youth livestock owners to be able to showcase their animals. The COVID-19 pandemic did cause issues with trying to hold a fair in such a way in previous years. The fair was canceled, but the New Castle Lion's Club and Extension Office worked within the perimeters set by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the CDC to hold animal shows. Luckily, the facilities at the Henry County Fairgrounds offered a great location because the show pavilion is not closed in and allowed amply space to social distance while in the show ring and while under the pavilion. Measures taken to ensure safety and social distance included; no livestock were able to be staged in the facility, participants showed off of the trailers, masks had to be worn while in the showring and under the pavilion, wash racks were closed to prevent close contact, no spectators except for one parent was allowed in the arena to be ringside while their child showed, all participants had to sign in for proper contact tracing procedures, and ample hand sanitizer and masks were provided. With all precautions taken, the following shows were able to take place; rabbit, poultry, beef, dairy, swine, sheep, and goat. Nine-two 4-H'ers were able to showcase their animals and exhibits while being in a safe environment and following all Kentucky Department of Agriculture and CDC regulations. Of the 92 participants, four were of a minority, and 55% were female. The pandemic has caused struggles, but with great volunteers shows were able to happen in a safe way. We were told by youth they were so excited to be able to show, because this would probably be the only time they could show.
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