The Livestock Project

4-H: Growing the Next Generation of Farmers

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Closeup of 2 girls in green T-shirts, one holding a goat and the other leaning on a fence

I pledge my head to clearer thinking,

my heart to greater loyalty,

my hands to larger service, and

my health to better living

for my club, my community, my country, and my world.

For more than 100 years, young people have recited the 4-H pledge. Rooted in values that promote growth, responsibility, and community engagement, 4-H has helped millions of kids develop leadership, confidence, and real-world skills.

Today’s 4-H members play an important role in shaping the agriculture industry’s future. As fewer children grow up on farms, programs like 4-H work to keep young people connected to the land and know where their food comes from.

4-H supports the agriculture industry by:

  • Introducing club members to careers in farming, agri-business, veterinary science, environmental management, and food production.
  • Helping club members explore agricultural challenges, such as sustainable farming and technological developments like precision agriculture.
  • Educating club members on new techniques in agriculture, like organic and alternative production methods.
  • Training club members as ambassadors for agriculture, focusing on the importance of farming and bridging the urban/rural gap.

Led by county extension offices and local clubs, 4-H is a development program for all youth. In addition to agriculture, club members can also learn about family and consumer sciences, creative arts, STEM, and personal development.

You can find 4-H alumni from all walks of life! There are sure to be some in your community. 4H alumni include US Presidents and first ladies, leaders of the Navaho nation, Nobel prize winners, artists, actors, writers, country music singers,  astronauts and more. List of 4-H alumni

Know someone interested in joining or supporting 4-H? Visit your local extension office or check out 4-H.org to learn how to get involved. Read more about 4-H project areas from Iowa State University Extension. Future Farmers of America (FFA) is a school-based program for high schoolers that is similar to 4-H. Check out the FFA website for more information.

Photo by UGA Extension – Fayette County

Marketing for Organic and Alternative Producers 

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A yellow "local honey for sale" sign hands in a farmers market on a white tent.

One of the greatest challenges for producers can be marketing and promoting their products. It might be difficult to differentiate your products from similar ones and find your consumer base. Unlike large brands, you have a limited budget, fewer distribution channels, and a smaller workforce. Using unique strategies, organic and alternative farmers can build strong … Read more

Mentorship in Agriculture: Our Role 

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A group of young veterinarians listen to instruction.

We all started in agriculture by the influence of someone, whether our parents, grandparents, or friends. Most of us can tie that connection and love back to a specific person or group, such as 4-H, FFA, or agricultural group. As the percentage of the population in agriculture decreases and our global population increases, we must … Read more

Calving: Knowing When to Intervene 

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A black and white cow licks and cleans a recently born black calf on a dirt lot.

The calving season comes with many unknowns, including weather, timing, and much more. Livestock producers also know you can rarely predict when cows will calve – though it usually seems to coincide with poor weather. Being prepared can make the difference in having a live or a dead calf. It is also important to know … Read more

Reproductive Health for Livestock 

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A tan cow nuzzles a dark brown calf.

For many farms, effective reproduction is crucial for success. Keeping your animals healthy and able to reproduce increases productivity and improves the herd’s overall health. Good reproduction management results in higher birth rates, healthier young animals, and a more efficient herd. Open livestock, which are females that are not pregnant, are common on farms. While … Read more

Electrolytes for Livestock 

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Cow mister in pasture

Especially during the summer heat, your livestock can be easily stressed and more prone to illness. Supportive therapies, such as electrolytes and fluid therapy, can assist with keeping animals healthy. Electrolytes can be crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of livestock, especially those with weakened immune systems or dehydration.   Electrolytes can be used for … Read more

Understanding A2A2 Milk 

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Jersey calf with a green ear tag lies in straw

Over the past ten years, A2A2 milk has continued gaining popularity with consumers, dairy cattle farms, and producers. A2A2 milk is marketed differently in stores, claiming it is easier to digest and improves health. Some dairy cattle farms select genetics that include the A2A2 gene to develop a completely A2A2 herd. Understanding what the A2 … Read more

Avian influenza in dairy cows – what organic and alternative producers need to know

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Ducks flying over water

As many may have heard, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been found in dairy cattle in multiple states around the United States. Dairy cattle on a farm in Texas first showed unusual symptoms, including an unexpected drop in milk production, thick colostrum-like milk, and changes in manure consistency. On March 25, 2024, the United … Read more