4-H Quality Assurance at a New Level

Published: 2022
By Ben Hauptman

The Granite County 4-H program comprises 66 members and 16 leaders participating in various projects. The 4-H program in Granite County combines efforts to share the unique hands-on learning experience that is 4-H. Members in the Granite County 4-H program can share in experiential learning at various county events: Project Possibilities, Foods Fair, Stir-Ups, Quality Assurance, Countywide Demonstrations, IPYA Presentations, and the Skill-A-Thon. The Granite County 4-H Council wanted to emphasize Livestock Quality Assurance for all members and all species during the 4-H year. We integrated a new curriculum to teach kids how to problem-solve situations they might encounter with their project animals and have real-world applications for those looking to pursue animal husbandry as adults. In Granite County, multiple workshops were held, and there was 100% participation from youth taking market animal projects. Kids with breeding and small animal projects also participated in species-specific activities. Afterward, youth learned about and taught each other proper feeding and nutrition, animal shelter design, and proper medication use. And they also had fun! We have seen positive results with increased carcass quality from Granite County 4-H members. Granite County will continue to identify the educational needs of the youth in the program while providing educators and leaders to help them reach their goals.