The 4-H Livestock projects for 2020 have been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Almost all of our traditional contests and shows have either been canceled or postponed indefinitely at this time. In an attempt to engage our youth we are planning a Virtual Livestock Learning Series to be kicked off in late August, early September. This is a multi-species educational series aimed to better prepare participants for knowledge contests and ultimately get our livestock, dairy, and poultry skillathon and quiz bowl contests started. Agents from both 4-H and the Forage and Livestock teams are producing educational modules that will be released over the month of September and will culminate with a knowledge test for each species. Participants can elect to participate in as many species as they wish. There will also be some fun, interactive events scheduled for October to engage our youth in the absence of the traditional SC State Fair.
Looking back at the project year 2019 we were excited to have had over 90 animal project record books turned in to the state office for judging. Record books are one of the highlights of almost all of our animal projects. They provide an opportunity for the participants to keep basic animal management records, define personal goals, highlight events that they attended as well as reflect on the project and how it impacted them and their family.
