From 2007 to 2012 the numbers 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 4-H Agriculture Fair is the time of year students have an opportunity to show off all of their hard work throughout the year. In 2017 there were 38 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 promotion of the agriculture industry, with young people, in our community is imperative for the recruitment and retention of new farmers. Without the continued support of the local community and state programs, premium money or other incentives would not be possible. We had over 30 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 by putting together our skillathon test and teaching the judging clinic. Approximately half of the students participating in this event also continued 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.