Month: September 2023

Travis Mitchell
Livestock and Forages Agent for Newberry & Saluda Counties
Director for The South Carolina Cattlemen’s Association

Summer has been a very busy season in Saluda County.  The Saluda County Clemson Extension Livestock & Forages program has assisted many producers with questions concerning hay production, pasture weed control, and fall armyworm control in pastures and hayfields.  Producers were also assisted in commingling tractor-trailer load lots for marketing their calf crop.  These load lots enabled producers to receive value-added premiums for the calves they sold.

The Clemson Extension Livestock & Forages team, in conjunction with the South Carolina Cattlemen’s Association, hosted the South Carolina Cattlemen’s Association regional meetings from August 29^th through the 31^st.  Over 250 producers from across the state were in attendance during this three-day event.  Dr. Mark Alley with Zoetis gave an outstanding presentation on the importance of vaccines and how they add value to your calf crop.  Dr. Alley then joined Dr. Che Trejo with Merck Animal Health and Mr. Randy Fordham with Boehringer-Ingelheim for a panel discussion about the importance of vaccines.  These three gentlemen answered the producer’s questions and provided further insight on overall herd health.

The Saluda County 4-H Livestock shows were held September 20^th and 21^st at the Central Milk Producers Show & Sale Arena.  Many 4-H youths from across the state exhibited their prize animals.  Seeing so many young people enthusiastically involved in agriculture is always a great time.

Lauren Black Venegas

4-H Youth Development Agent 

Saluda County

As we end summer and fall begins, Saluda 4-H is in full swing. We wrapped up the Spring with several camps during Spring Break and one of our 4-Hers, Mya Chapman, attending the National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C. We also had a great group of Juniors attend Junior Teen Weekend at Camp Long in April.

As summer began, we offered several camp opportunities starting in June and going through July. We partnered with the Saluda School District to provide 4-H classes during the Summer Reading Program for June. We highlighted the different program areas of 4-H during those four weeks. Some of the student’s favorites were paper rockets, homemade bread, penny boats, hay lesson, and so much more.  Some of the camps that we offered this summer were:

All things Nature. We had a morning and afternoon group. We learned about pollinators, ecosystems, and soil layers during this camp. We planted two pollinator gardens in front of the Extension office. They planted their own garden seeds and made their own mini ecosystem through things that are outside.

Sewing Camp was a three-day camp that had a beginner group in the morning and an older group in the afternoon. The morning group made snake pillows with cat faces while learning how to hand sew, sew on a button, and sew with a machine. The afternoon group made lounging pants. They also learned about hand sewing and sewing on a machine.

Baking Camp was a two-day camp that had a morning and afternoon group. On the first day, they learned about the different baking equipment and how to measure ingredients correctly, and we made homemade cupcakes, icing, and pretzels. On the second day, we learned about all things pie. They made their own homemade pie crust and then used it to make pop tarts and mini apple pies.

At the beginning of July, we started with the State 4-H Congress. Mya Chapman was awarded the highest honor in 4-H during the banquet, the Presidential Tray.

We then picked back up with camps to finish off the summer. Those camps were:

Kids in the Kitchen is a two-day camp with a morning and afternoon group and a third group on different days for the two-day camp in the morning. They learned the proper way to measure, and each youth made their own scrambled eggs. We also made breakfast and dinner entrees.

Robotic Camp was a one-day camp with a morning and afternoon group. They learned about coding electric circuits and built their own robot.

We ended the summer camps with an Arts and Craft camp. It was a one-day camp with a morning and afternoon group. They learned about using different techniques to paint. We used tin foil, bubble wrap, and forks.

This summer was jam-packed and fun. We took some time in August to get caught up and plan the new 4-H year. As fall starts, we have a lot planned for the upcoming 4-H year. We celebrated the past year’s accomplishments in September with a drop-in awards ceremony followed by the after-school clubs. We had five youths turn in their record books and enter the tomato contest from the tomato project. We had one teen sign up to be an ambassador with the State 4-H program.

This semester, we partner with Saluda Primary and Elementary to provide art to Kindergarten through Fifth-grade students. We go each month for one day per grade. It has been a rewarding experience to see what the students can do.

Just before the first day of fall, we hosted the 2023 Saluda Livestock Show. We had a show for beef cattle, goats, poultry, rabbits, and dairy heifers. We had an excellent turnout for all the shows.

We look forward to more in the months, weeks, and days ahead to improve the best.

Contact your 4-H agent for more information! Lblack4@clemson.edu

York County Extension
Hello York County,
The extension agents are as busy as ever with programs. I hope you enjoy reading about the many
things we have been doing and programs upcoming.
We welcome Tina Horn, who serves as the livestock & forage agent in York County and works statewide
with dairy farms. Please contact our staff directly with your questions from this contact page:
https://www.clemson.edu/york/

Paul Thompson
Urban Horticulture Agent/County Coordinator

Learn more about our available online courses here:  https://cpe.clemson.edu/

The South Carolina Dairy Heifer Project began in 1974 and is one of the oldest 4-H projects of its kind in the Nation. This project was designed to provide youth in South Carolina an opportunity to raise a dairy heifer and experience the dairy industry, and then sell their heifer at the South Carolina Dairy Heifer Project Bred Heifer Sale. Throughout the years, thousands of South Carolina youth have taken part in 4-H dairy work. These 4-H and Dairy Heifer Project alumni can be found in all “walks of life.” Many are outstanding farmers and leaders of the dairy industry, while others are doctors, veterinarians, and teachers. In nearly every case, these people look back on this 4-H dairy experience as an outstanding part of their youth.

As the dairy industry has changed and evolved over the years, so has the South Carolina Dairy Heifer Project. Due to COVID restrictions, the 2020 Bred Heifer Sale was held online for the first time with great success. Due to that success, the sale has been permanently moved to an online format and the event dates have been adjusted to better suit the needs of the dairy industry. Through all the changes, the South Carolina Dairy Heifer Project has continued to thrive and reach youth across the state. Thirty-seven heifers are currently in project and under the care of 4-H youth and eighteen of those youth are from York County.

The 4-H and FFA dairy project members exhibit their dairy project animals at fairs, shows, and events in nearly every region of the state. Millions of people have seen or learned about 4-H and FFA through these youth dairy exhibits at the many fairs and events in South Carolina. This offers a tremendous opportunity for 4-H, FFA, Clemson Cooperative Extension, and the dairy industry to educate and inform the public about the dairy industry and youth dairy programs. Many thanks go out to the industry for the support of the program. Heifers for the project come from project alumni and producers across the Southeast who have seen the impact the project has had and is continuing to have on our youth.

4-H is doing so much in York County! This summer we hosted many 4-H opportunities for the youth. We were able to have camps and teach youth about outdoor art, sewing, playing guitar, baking, insect identification, horses, cooking, and leadership. Our county sent 11 youth to Clemson for a week to learn about statewide 4-H opportunities, build relationships with 4-Her’s from other counties, and enjoy workshops on life skills and leadership. Our youth have also been working hard this summer to prepare for the fall livestock show season. Many of these 4-Her’s will be showed at the York County Fall Livestock Show on September 8th & 9th. To wrap up the summer events and celebrate all that our youth accomplished, we will be hosted a York County 4-H Awards Banquet. We enjoyed recognizing all the youth who spent time with us this year.

September 1st kicked off the 2023-2024 4-H Year and 4-H is continuing to grow. We have 11 active 4-H clubs with 6 more planned to pick up in the next two months. We will have 10 schools offering afterschool 4-H clubs this school year and many more participating in our 4-H Embryology, School Gardening, and Ecosystems projects. 14 youth were just named York County 4-H Project Ambassadors and we have 13 State 4-H Ambassadors this year from York County. Our programs would not be possible without our amazing volunteers. We conducted volunteer training in August and trained 22 volunteers for the 2023-2024 4-H year. Our kids are excited and motivated to do more for their community and our volunteers are prepared to support their efforts. I am so thankful for the energy and excitement that these 4-Hers are receiving from their community.
The Spirit of 4-H Award is a South Carolina 4-H honor recognizing an outstanding individual based off their ability to exemplify the four Hs: Head, Heart, Health, and Hands. Criteria that are used to select the recipient each year includes impact in the community, impact on the 4-H program, program responsibility, level of involvement in the county program, and level of involvement in the state program. I’m so excited to announce that Riley Cotton from the York County Happy Hooves 4-H Club was selected as this year’s Spirit of 4-H Award Winner. She truly deserves this recognition for all that she has done for York County 4-H. Read her 4-H Story Below.

Riley Cotton: 2023 SC Spirit of 4-H Award Recipient
As a member of their local 4-H horse club, Riley Cotton takes an active part in her club meetings, serving as the secretary. She has participated in many counties and statewide events. Riley has shown in the State 4-H Horse Show for many years and competes in Hippology. Riley volunteers at a local therapeutic riding center and helps with their annual Special Olympics team. She’s supported their local 4-H program by obtaining sponsorships for their county livestock shows. Riley gives back to their community and helps whenever she can. Riley possesses leadership qualities that are easily seen by those around her. She is passionate about 4-H and wants to see everyone succeed. She is a role model for the younger 4-Hers in our county and loves to share her passion for agriculture with the community. Riley has been a huge part of the success of 4-H in York County. Congratulations on being this year’s South Carolina Spirit of 4-H Award Winner.

Community Service

Our community service projects encompass the 4-H pledge to better our ‘community, country, and world’. Whenever you come to a York County 4-H Event, remember to bring ONE of the following:

• A Canned Good for local Food Pantries & Blessing Boxes
• A Soda or Soup Can Tab for the Ronald McDonald House
• A Dollar for the Samaritan’s Purse: Animals, Agriculture & Livelihoods Projects

All of our club leaders and volunteers can accept your donations and will ensure it is brought to the County Extension Office to be donated with the other items.

4-H Future Events

New 4-H Club Coming to York, SC:
We will be starting a general 4-H club in York, SC. This club will have a youth lead business meeting at the beginning, an educational program in the middle, and small group project time at the end of each club meeting. We are inviting any youth who are interested to attend. We want to extend a special invitation to anyone who has been showing meat goats, poultry, or rabbits to use this opportunity to join a 4-H club. This club will meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM at the York County Clemson Extension office. 

Spirit Night & Community Musicians Jam:
We will be having monthly spirit nights at Towne Tavern in York on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. A percentage of the proceeds that night will be donated to our York County 4-H Program. We hope that you will come out and join us on October 17th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. We are also inviting local musicians to come and enjoy time playing music together. If your child would be interested in playing with other musicians, please encourage them to bring their instrument.

Events:
October 11th – 25th: South Carolina State Fair
October 16th: York County 4-H Advisory Board Meeting
October 21st: 4-H Day at the State Fair 4-H Members get in Free
October 21st: HappyHooves 4-H Club Sponsored Horse Show & Clinics, Clover, SC

Registration Deadlines:
October 1st: 4-H Membership with Free T-shirt
November 1st – December 5th: York County 4-H & FFA Swine Project

https://4honline.com/

Our mailing address is:
Clemson University Cooperative Extension
120 N. Congress St.
York, SC 29745

Health Extension for Diabetes is now available in York County and has had several graduating cohorts in 2023. This diabetes self-management and support program is offered in-person or online for those with a diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. During this program, participants learn about topics such as healthy eating with diabetes, the importance of physical activity, how to manage stress, and more to successfully self-managing their diabetes. For more information: https://clemson.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07gV9gl3ZHOAohU

SC Farmer Resource Rodeo Connects Farmers and Resource Providers

The SC Farmer Resource Rodeo returned in 2023 as part of the annual South Carolina Local Food Summit. Sponsored by Clemson University Cooperative Extension’s South Carolina New and Beginning Farmer Program (SCNBFP), the rodeo showcased over 40 organizations that provide farmer support, including education and Extension staff, lenders, granting organizations, land and production resources, state and federal agencies, regulatory bodies, non-profit assistance and more. Participating farmers were able to learn about these organizations and connect one-on-one.

“We are so pleased to have had the opportunity to bring back the Resource Rodeo,” says Ben Boyles, SCNBFP director. “Farming can often seem like a solitary occupation, and farmers are not always aware of.  The vast number of resources available to them,” he continued. “Through this event, we are not only able to introduce farmers to invaluable sources of assistance but give them the opportunity to connect directly with resource representatives.”

All Aboard! Agritourism Workshop Coming to York County
Interested in adding an exciting revenue stream for your farm business? Agritourism might be for you! Hop aboard a charted bus as we learn all about agritourism trends and resources while touring 3 unique agritourism farms in York County, SC.

Topics will include on-farm sales, u-pick operations, tour logistics, hosting workshops and events, school tours, farm dinners, food sales, and more! Get your questions answered by experienced agritourism providers!

Workshop Tour Stops
• Tatanka Bison Ranch
• Black’s Peaches
• Five Blossoms Farm

Thursday, September 28, 2023 | In-person | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Meet at Clemson Extension – York County
120 N. Congress Street
York, SC 29745
Workshop Contact: Ben Boyles http://boyles2@clemson.edu

SC New and Beginning Farmer Program Launches Level 3 Program

Now in its 13th year, the Clemson Extension SC New and Beginning Farmer Program (SCNBFP) has graduated over 500 new and aspiring farmers from its basic, beginning-level cohort program. The SCNBFP is excited to launch a new Advanced Level 3 Program in 2023 to offer a higher level of instruction for those who are still relatively new to farming but are looking to further their education in key areas of agribusiness and production. The SCNBFP Advanced Level 3 Program offers 20 full-day workshops and is designed so that qualified participants may choose whatever SCNBFP Advanced Workshops best suit their individual needs. These curated training events are the product of strategic collaborations within Clemson University as well as additional agricultural support organizations such as Soil & Water Conservations Districts, the Small Business Development Center, and farmer educators throughout the state.

“While our established core curriculum provides comprehensive training at a basic level, there is a need in South Carolina for continued new farmer education at a higher level,” says SCNBFP Director and York County Clemson Extension Agribusiness Agent Ben Boyles. “Our new Advanced Program provides a deeper dive into critical and/or niche topics appropriate for the experienced but still growing new farmer audience.”

The SCNBFP Advanced Level 3 Program runs from September 2023 through March 2024 with a series of full-day workshops hosted throughout the state, many at on-farm locations and several through online platforms. All workshops are also available on an individual basis to the general public not enrolled in the full program. More information about these workshops can be found here: 

https://www.clemson.edu/extension/newfarmer/workshops.html

Julia Newsome, Rural Health & Nutrition Extension Agent

Union & Cherokee Counties

I have promoted extension programs and recruited participants at various events/health fairs across Union County this summer. If you see me at a local event, feel free to stop by and ask any questions regarding Clemson Cooperative Extension programing!

I started two “Health Extension for Diabetes (HED)” cohorts for Union residents: one online and one in-person. Registration is open for the in-person cohort until Tuesday 09/19/23, please contact me if you are interested in HED programing.

• HED is a free diabetes support program recognized by the ADA as a practice-tested diabetes support program. The main goal of this program is to help participants better manage diabetes to prevent or delay complications. HED is 4 months long and includes a series of 8 education sessions and intermittent support sessions; Each session is designed to help participants learn more about diabetes and provide them with necessary skills and support to successfully self-manage diabetes. Participants will receive bi-weekly materials and weekly follow-up to help navigate resources and reach healthy lifestyle goals; A Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes diagnosis is required for enrollment.

In July, I spoke at the Union County School District’s (UCSD) Opening Day Professional Development event for UCSD staff. I provided “Know Diabetes By Heart (KDBH)”. If there is an upcoming event or group meeting that you would be interested in me speaking at, I would love to attend. Please feel free to contact me if you have any opportunities or questions.

• KDBH is sponsored by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and American Heart Association (AHA). It is a free education session offered in-person or online. The program aims to help participants better understand the link between diabetes and heart disease. By participating in this one-hour session, you will learn more about risks related to diabetes and heart disease, how to take control of your risks, and learn about community and clinical resources.

It is important for me to be a part of the Union community, so I became a member of the Union County Rotary Club this April. I’m looking forward to upholding the Clemson Extension standard of service!

Julia’s Contact Information:
Office – 864-424-8275
Email – Janewso@clemson.edu

During the school year, 4-H provides hands-on activities with standards alignment for classrooms. Exploring a concept through a craft, building challenge, or demonstration can reinforce knowledge and provide a break from traditional class lectures. Your 4-H agent provides the supplies, prep work, and clean-up to conduct these classroom visits.

4-H offers the following tracts for classroom engagement, but we are flexible and always eager to plan around individual teachers’ needs and interests:

• Embryology: Hatch chicken eggs with your class! All supplies are provided and the automatic incubator makes this project both unforgettable and easy! Traditionally conducted in the spring.

• Butterfly Life Cycle: Raise Painted Lady caterpillars and watch their transformation into beautiful butterflies. Pair with your life cycle unit for a simple yet engaging demonstration of vocabulary in action. Traditionally conducted in the spring.

• School Gardening: Learn how to start and sustain a school garden with the Clemson University School Garden for SC Educators course. The course includes the Garden STEM curriculum guide as well as options for purchasing raised bed kits. Those who have taken the course and maintain a school garden are eligible to receive transplants and seeds. Plant, nurture, and watch your success grow!

• STEM challenges and more: Want to plan a series of classroom visits around your science lessons? Let’s design a custom set of activities!

4-H recommends at least six hours of engagement (either from the 4-H agent or by using the supplies provided). If you or a teacher you know is interested in free, hands-on classroom engagement, please contact your 4-H agent Stephanie Eidt: seidt@clemson.edu | 803-589-8977.

Fairfield 4-H will continue the Take-Home Kit Club for the 2023-2024 school year. Each month a bag of supplies for a craft or science-themed activity will be available for individuals who Sign Up. Examples from last year include a rubber band harmonica, hand-sewn beanbag, and pony bead keychain. Activities are targeted for children ages 8-13, but any student in Fairfield County aged 5-18 can join this independent learning project.

Membership is encouraged but not required for participation. Membership runs from September 1^st through August 31^st  of each year. Cost is $15 and includes a t-shirt if enrolled before October 1^st. Membership is required for participation with in-person clubs, projects, and some summer camps. If cost is prohibitive, contact your 4-H agent Stephanie Eidt: seidt@clemson.edu | 803-589-8977.