Category: Local Community

York County 4-H is celebrating a major milestone—we’ve officially enrolled over 600 youth for the 2024–2025 4-H year! This exciting benchmark represents more than just a number. It’s a sign of a thriving, diverse program that’s capturing the hearts and curiosity of young people across the county.

And this is only the beginning.

Kristin Kunde 

York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University

120 N. Congress St. York, SC 29745

w 803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu

4-H Journalism Project Takes Off
This fall, we launched the York County 4-H Journalism Project, giving youth the opportunity to dive into the world of media and storytelling. Participants are learning about interviewing, photography, and article writing while covering local 4-H events. Through this project, they are developing valuable communication skills and gaining hands-on experience in journalism. We look forward to seeing their stories come to life and sharing their work with the community!

Celebrating Agriculture Month
November was all about agriculture in York County 4-H! As part of Agriculture Month, we hosted special activities highlighting the importance of farming and local food production. Our 4-H’ers participated in farm visits, hands-on workshops, and educational sessions about livestock, crops, and sustainability. This month-long celebration reinforced the vital role agriculture plays in our daily lives and inspired youth to explore careers in the ag industry.

York County 4-H at the SC Women in Agriculture Conference
Nine York County 4-H’ers and 4-H alumni had the incredible opportunity to attend the 2025 South Carolina Women in Agriculture Conference. This event provided valuable networking, mentorship, and learning experiences for our young leaders interested in agriculture. Their participation highlights the impact of 4-H in fostering future agricultural professionals and advocates.

Swine Project Nears Completion
We are nearing the end of our annual Swine Project, with over 80 pigs in this year’s program. This initiative continues to grow, offering youth hands-on experience in animal care, responsibility, and agricultural education. We are excited to see the project’s continued expansion and the skills our participants develop along the way.

Celebrating 2025 SC Miss 4-H: Dacy Freeman
A big congratulations to Dacy Freeman, who has been named the 2025 South Carolina Miss 4-H! Her dedication to 4-H and leadership within the program exemplify the best of what 4-H has to offer. We are proud to have her represent York County at the state level.
Robinson McDaniel and Jethro Yost were also crowned at the 2025 SC 4-H Showcase. Both youth are York County 4-Hers.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the summer, we are excited about the day-camp and overnight camp opportunities that York County 4-H’ers will have. These experiences provide youth with unforgettable learning, leadership, and outdoor adventure opportunities. Thank you to everyone who supports York County 4-H—we couldn’t do it without you!

Kristin Kunde 
York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University

120 N. Congress St.
York, SC 29745

w 803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu

The world of horticulture is as dynamic as it is rewarding. Every day presents new opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with nature—and the more I immerse myself in this field, the more I discover how much there is to explore. Moving continents certainly accelerated the learning curve—Switzerland, with its colder climate, presented far fewer pest challenges compared to the Upstate!

As the Horticulture Agent for Spartanburg County, my mission is to serve our community by continually expanding my own knowledge. The more I learn, the better I can support and empower others to grow and thrive in their own gardens and landscapes. One of the questions I’m often asked is, “What native plants should I grow here in the Upstate?” This led me to create a native plant identification program for Wofford College’s Lifelong Learning program. In the course, we explored botanical terms like lenticels and sepals and examined 50 plant species that are native to our region. This project not only deepened my understanding of local flora but also allowed me to teach others about the beauty and benefits of these plants, all while expanding my own botanical vocabulary.

In addition to my work with local plants, I’ve had the privilege of advising St. Luke’s Free Medical Clinic on their journey toward growing food and developing a teaching garden. Through this collaboration, I’ve learned more about vegetable gardening in the Upstate—no small feat, given our unique growing conditions. These insights have allowed me to better assist clients with their own home gardening questions, offering advice that is both practical and regionally relevant.

I’m also excited to be working closely with our local Master Gardeners, who play an invaluable role in our community. Their outreach efforts continue to inspire me, and I look forward to collaborating with them on an upcoming class, set to launch in Fall 2025. Together, we’ll empower even more people to grow their knowledge and skills in horticulture.

On the horizon, I’m working on something I’m particularly excited about: the Backyard Homesteading classes. Many homeowners are eager to become more self-sufficient, and I’m thrilled to offer them the tools and guidance to do just that—even with a small backyard. From planning your property to raising and butchering poultry, from canning to beekeeping, and even eating your weeds—there’s so much potential in small spaces. It’s my goal to help homeowners reclaim their food sources and find joy in their gardens in ways they may never have imagined.

As I continue to grow in this role, I am incredibly grateful for the guidance and support I receive from my fellow agents and supervisors.

Nicole Goodman – County Consumer Horticulture Agent

It will soon be time for our 4^th annual Peach Country Livestock Expo!  This partnership between Spartanburg and Cherokee County 4-H provides a much-needed opportunity for our area youth to exhibit their animals during the spring season.

Each year the event has seen growth in youth participants, species exhibited, and community sponsors.  For 2025 we have added a Dairy Goat Show and a Horse Show!  Last year we hosted almost 70 youth exhibitors and hope that with the addition of two new species that we are able to increase that number to 100 this year!

The show is open to the public and there is no charge for admission.  Please join us to cheer on our 4-H and FFA youth!

The schedule is as follows:

• Friday, March 21^st at the Piedmont Interstate Fairgrounds
  • 6:00pm – Market Swine Show
• Saturday, March 22^nd at the Piedmont Interstate Fairgrounds
  • 11:00am – Beef Cattle Show
  • 2:00pm – Rabbit Show and Chicken Show
  • 5:00pm – Dairy Goat Show
• Saturday, April 26^th at Croft State Park
  • Time TBA – Horse Show

For more information about the show (to attend, enter, or sponsor) please contact Laura Haddon by email at lhaddon@clemson.edu or by phone at (864) 596-2993.

The holiday season is a time of giving, reflection, and spreading joy, and the York County 4-H Teen Council embraced this spirit wholeheartedly with their recent Toy Mission project. Demonstrating the values of leadership, teamwork, and service, the youth council collected $375 to purchase toys for children at Levine Children’s Hospital. This heartwarming initiative showcased the power of 4-H’s “learn by doing” philosophy, providing our young leaders with a hands-on opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Turning an Idea into Action

The Toy Mission began with the teens identifying a need in their community: brightening the lives of children facing medical challenges during the holiday season. Motivated by their collective desire to help, the council organized a fundraiser and raised $375 through their hard work and dedication. This initiative was not just about raising money but about learning how to plan, communicate, and execute a real-world project—skills that will serve these youth well throughout their lives.

Teamwork in Action at Walmart

With their funds in hand, the teens headed to Walmart with a mission to maximize their impact. Dividing into small teams, they worked together to create a plan, prioritize items, and stretch their budget as far as possible. This experience provided valuable lessons in collaboration, critical thinking, and budgeting. The youth carefully selected toys, art supplies, and games, ensuring their choices would bring joy to children of all ages. Once the toys were purchased, the Teen Council members gathered to wrap each gift. This step was more than just preparing the toys for delivery; it was an opportunity for the teens to add a personal touch and reflect on the joy their efforts would bring. The room buzzed with excitement as festive paper transformed the items into beautiful presents.

Delivering Smiles to Levine Children’s Hospital

The final step of the mission was perhaps the most rewarding: hand-delivering the wrapped gifts to Levine Children’s Hospital. The teens’ visit was filled with smiles, gratitude, and the knowledge that their efforts had brought a little extra joy to the hospital’s young patients and their families. It was a moment of connection and service that left a lasting impact on both the youth and the community they served.

Learning by Doing: The Heart of 4-H

The Toy Mission exemplifies what 4-H is all about: learning by doing. Through this project, the York County 4-H Teen Council not only made a difference in their community but also gained invaluable life skills. They learned how to organize a fundraiser, plan and manage a budget, work as a team, and give back with empathy and purpose. These real-world experiences help build strong, confident leaders who are ready to tackle challenges and make a positive impact wherever they go.

Looking Ahead

The success of the Toy Mission has inspired the Teen Council to think about future service projects that continue to embody the 4-H pledge to “pledge my hands to larger service.” As we reflect on this meaningful initiative, we are reminded of the importance of empowering our youth to lead with compassion and action.

To learn more about the York County 4-H Teen Council or to get involved with 4-H, contact our local office or visit York County 4-H’s website. Together, we can continue to nurture the leaders of tomorrow while making a difference today.

Kristin Kunde 

York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University

120 N. Congress St.

York, SC 29745

w 803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu

Inspiring Leadership Through Civic Engagement

The York County 4-H Legislative Day, held on Monday, November 18th, 2024, brought together 4-H’ers, council members, and community leaders for an evening that highlighted civic engagement and leadership. This annual event provides youth with the opportunity to learn about local government, share their 4-H experiences, and express gratitude for the support of county leaders.

Learning from Leaders

Christi Cox, chairman of the York County Council, began the evening with an engaging presentation on the history and processes of the county council. Her talk shed light on how local government operates and the vital role it plays in shaping the York County community.

Following her presentation, the evening transitioned into a unique networking opportunity. 4-H youth met and spoke one-on-one with council members, gaining valuable insights into the responsibilities and rewards of public service. This time allowed for meaningful conversations and helped build connections between the next generation of leaders and current policymakers.

4-H’ers Take the Stage

The evening culminated during the regularly scheduled council meeting, where three outstanding 4-H members—Natalie Estes (15), Noah Parise (11), and Avery Smith (12)—delivered powerful two-minute speeches.

Each 4-H’er expressed heartfelt gratitude to the council for their continued support of the York County 4-H program. Their stories were a vivid reminder of the profound impact 4-H has on youth development.

Strengthening Civic Engagement

York County 4-H Legislative Day is more than an event; it is a platform for youth to connect with local leaders, learn about governance, and share their voices. We are deeply grateful to the York County Council for their ongoing encouragement and support, and for inspiring our 4-H’ers to pursue leadership and service in their communities.

Through events like this, 4-H continues to empower young people to grow into informed, active citizens who are ready to “Make the Best Better.”

Kristin Kunde 

York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University

120 N. Congress St.

York, SC 29745

w 803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu

Alana West – Assistant Program Team Director SC 4-H Youth Development

Newberry County 4-H Hiring New Agent

For 13 years, Alana West served as 4-H Agent for Newberry County. Under her guidance, the program grew to reach 37% of youth aged 5 through 18 in the county. Opportunities have included programs in animals and agriculture, leadership, personal development, healthy living, STEM, and natural resources delivered via camps, workshops, school enrichment, clubs, and independent projects.

In March, Mrs. West accepted the position of Assistant Director of the South Carolina 4-H Youth Development Program. In this role she will work with state level staff to support the team of 4-H agents that represent South Carolina’s 46 counties. While she does have an office on the campus of Clemson University, she will keep her home office in the Newberry County Clemson Extension building.

Currently, Clemson Extension is in the process of hiring a new 4-H Agent. Interviews should take place soon with hopes of the program being back in full swing by Christmas.

In the meantime, there are a few 4-H volunteers keeping clubs running and statewide projects are still available for local youth. For more information on 4-H in Newberry County contact Alana West at 803.768.8442 or awillin@clemson.edu.

New Face at Newberry County Clemson Extension Office

When visiting the Newberry Extension Office please make sure to welcome the new Administrative Assistant, Mrs. Rachel Horne. Rachel is originally from Kinards, SC. She grew up on her family’s small farm and spent many years working for Satterwhite Farms. She has a degree in Diversified Agriculture from Piedmont Technical College and a bachelor’s degree from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Agribusiness. She most recently worked for Farm Bureau Insurance, but is excited to be coming back to her agriculture roots by working for Clemson Extension. Rachel currently resides in Pomaria with her husband, Parker.

Rachel can be reached at ryoung6@clemson.edu or 803.276.0191.

It’s been an exciting and busy few months for York County 4-H, and we’re thrilled to share some of the incredible milestones, achievements, and upcoming events that have kept our 4-H family thriving.

A Look Back: Achievements and Milestones

Over the past six months, York County 4-H has seen tremendous growth and enthusiasm, with over 500 registered members taking part in various projects and events that span our five program areas: STEM, Agriculture, Healthy Lifestyles, Civic Engagement, and Natural Resources. Here are just a few highlights from recent months:

Summer Camps: Fun, Learning, and Adventure

This past summer, York County 4-H offered a variety of engaging and educational summer camps that provided youth with opportunities to explore new interests, build friendships, and develop important life skills. From agriculture-focused camps, where participants learned hands-on about animal care and gardening, to STEM camps that sparked creativity and problem-solving, there was something for everyone. One of the highlights was our outdoor adventure camp, where youth enjoyed fishing, team-building activities, and learning about natural resources. These camps not only helped 4-H’ers gain knowledge but also created lasting memories and fostered a love for learning in a fun and supportive environment. We can’t wait to see what next summer holds!

York County 4-H Banquet

On August 29th, we gathered at 145 Blackburn St. in York, SC, for the 2024 York County 4-H Banquet. This event celebrated the dedication and achievements of our 4-H’ers, with 177 awards presented to members who excelled in their respective projects. A total of 75 youth were recognized for their outstanding efforts, and we had the honor of hearing from McKenna Johnson, a York County 4-H Alumna who is now studying at Clemson University. She inspired everyone in attendance by sharing her 4-H journey and the impact it had on her life. We also heard from Gavin Lewis, our 2023-2024 Teen Council President, who reflected on the past year and looked forward to the bright future ahead for York County 4-H. 

Multi-Species Showmanship Clinic and Supreme Showman Contest

This summer, York County 4-H hosted a Multi-Species Showmanship Clinic, providing our youth with hands-on training in showing a variety of animals, including cattle, goats, poultry, and swine. Participants had the chance to work with experienced mentors, learning the skills needed to handle and present different species in a competitive setting. This clinic culminated in the highly anticipated Supreme Showman Contest, where our talented 4-H’ers showcased their skills in front of judges, competing for the prestigious title of Supreme Showman. The contest not only tested their knowledge and abilities across multiple species but also demonstrated their dedication, hard work, and versatility as livestock exhibitors. This event proved to be one of the most challenging yet rewarding opportunities for our 4-H youth to demonstrate their mastery of showmanship and animal care. Congratulations to Senior 4-Her, Mattie Johnson, for being awarded this year’s Grand Champion in our Supreme Showman Contest.

Fall Livestock Show

The highly anticipated Fall Livestock Show was held on September 6th and 7th in Rock Hill. This event continues to be a highlight for our members who raise livestock, as well as a fantastic opportunity for the broader community to see firsthand the hard work our youth put into caring for their animals. Over 100 youth from all over the county gathered to show their livestock. Shows included Dairy Cattle, Dairy Goats, Horses, Poultry, and Meat Goats. We were honored to have the continued support of Councilman Tommy Adkins, who backed this event, and Councilwoman Christi Cox, who showed her support for the Dairy Goat project. These relationships between our 4-H members and local leaders demonstrate the strong ties we’ve built within the community.

Introducing the 4-H Bluegrass Project

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new 4-H Bluegrass Project, a unique opportunity for youth to dive into the world of Bluegrass music while developing leadership skills and a sense of community. This project has been a dream in the making for nearly two years, and we are excited to finally kick it off! Bluegrass music holds a special place in many of our lives, and through this project, we hope to share that passion with the next generation. Participants will not only learn to play and appreciate Bluegrass music but also gain valuable skills such as teamwork, confidence, and public speaking. The project will culminate in a trip to the SPBGMA (Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America) in Nashville, TN, where members will experience the heart of the Bluegrass community. This project is sure to be an unforgettable experience, combining music, leadership, and community service in true 4-H spirit!

Stay Tuned for More!

As we head into the fall, we encourage everyone to stay connected with York County 4-H through our newsletters and social media pages. With so many exciting projects, events, and opportunities on the horizon, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for our 4-H’ers. Whether it’s through leadership, community service, or showcasing their skills in competitions, York County 4-H youth are proving they have what it takes to succeed and make a positive impact.

Thank you to all of our volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for making these incredible experiences possible. Your dedication to York County 4-H helps ensure that we continue to “make the best better” for our community.

We look forward to seeing everyone at our upcoming events!

Kristin Kunde

York County 4-H Agent
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University

120 N. Congress Street
York, SC 29745

803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu

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

 
Livestock and Forage producers around South Carolina are certainly ready for spring.  The spring bull and replacement heifer sales are in full swing, as this always seems to be a very busy time of the year.  As we move into 2024, input costs in every agriculture sector continue to rise.  Producers will face many challenges this year as they manage their budgets to navigate the rise in input costs.
The South Carolina Cattlemen’s Association held its annual meeting and convention on February 2 at the T.Ed. Garrison Arena in Clemson.  The educational components of the meeting focused on the beef cattle market outlook and investment strategies during market peaks.  Scholarships and state awards of excellence were also presented.  The South Carolina Cattlemen’s Foundation awarded four scholarships to deserving college students.
The Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association will hold its 32nd Annual Replacement Heifer Sale on Saturday, February 24.  Over 85 bred and open heifers will be auctioned from Saluda County cattlemen.
The Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association met on February 6.  Participants listened to an excellent presentation from Mr. Matthew Fischer, Clemson Extension Ag Economist.  Mr. Fischer gave producers a look into market expectations as we move through 2024.
The Saluda County Extension Service will offer a CAMM Recertification course on March 6 at the Hollywood Ruritan.  Participants interested in attending can call the office for further details on how to register.  2024 marks the end of the recertification block for producers holding a Private Pesticide Applicator license.  License holders are required to obtain five recertification credits by December 31, 2024.  A recertification course will be offered on March 6 at the Hollywood Ruritan Building.  Please call the Saluda County Extension office at 864-803-1123 to register.
 

Lauren Venegas Black

4H Agent for Saluda County

As we enter the New Year, we have been busy with numerous activities, competitions, and events. Our monthly clubs have been meeting and doing multiple activities.

 For the month of January:

• Our after school Clubs made Valentine’s posters for our Nursing Home patients.
• Our cooking clubs learned how to make taco bites.
• Our Sewing Club started working on a reading pillow.
• Our Livestock Club learned about Horses.

School Enrichment:

• We are still partnering with Saluda Primary Elementary School to provide art to kindergarten – 5^th grade once a month.
• We partnered with Hollywood Elementary School 4^th grade to provide lessons on electricity and circuits through our Snap Circuits.

State Events and Competitions:

• Congratulations to Sarah Ann Crawford for being selected to compete in the State 4-H Presentation Contest.
• Congratulations to Makiyah Glymph on being selected as our Junior Poultry Record book Winner. She is now competing in the State Junior Poultry Record Book Contest.
• Congratulations to Sarah Ann Crawford on being selected as our Junior Wildlife Food Plot Record Book Winner. She is now competing in the State Junior Wildlife Food Plot Record Book Contest.
• We had several Juniors attend Junior Teen Weekend in February at Camp Long. Sarah Ann Crawford, Myla Long, Corley Jean Herlong, Caroline Berry, and Gillian O’Gorman. Mya Chapman also attended as a leader with the State Teen Council.

Upcoming Events and Projects:

South Carolina 4-H Engineering Challenge Overview
The event will be held at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds in Columbia, SC, on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, from 9 AM to 3:30 PM for youth ages 9-18 *. The SC 4-H Engineering Challenge began in 2012 and has grown annually to approximately 250 youth competitors! Youth who participated in this event reported increased confidence and knowledge in science skills. In addition to STEM-based
challenges for youth competition, there will be an interactive STEAM Expo from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

4-H Poultry Project Offered
             It’s that time of year again to sign up for the 2024 4-H Poultry Project. It may be cool now, but Spring will be here before you know it, and the days will get warmer. With the current price of eggs, there is no better time to teach our youth the fun of raising and showing chickens. For the new or veteran chicken grower, this 4-H project offers youth the opportunity to learn valuable lessons in caring for and maintaining a flock in a fun and engaging atmosphere.
Raising baby chicks from day one to egg-laying age can be a rewarding experience for our 4-H youth across South Carolina. The 4-H Poultry Projects are open to all youth ages five to eighteen. Each county Clemson Extension office and 4-H Program will have registration information. Contact Steve Huck, Region Poultry Project Coordinator (chucks@clemson.edu), or Saluda County 4-H Agent at lblack4@clemson.edu.
             The 4-H Pullet Chain has been one of our most popular projects, and other than feed and shelter, it does not require an abundance of time or expense. Registration is open through March 3, 2024. Youth can order chicks in quantities of twelve ($45) or twenty-five ($85) to raise over the summer. Chicks will arrive in early May. This year’s breeds of chicks are Golden Comet, Rhode Island Red, and Barred Plymouth Rock. Each breed is a reliable layer. We encourage families to research before deciding which breed will be best for their 4-H project and as their backyard flock.
              Successful completion of the Pullet Chain project requires record keeping, showing at least one show, and returning a portion of the birds at the end of the project for auction. If you order 12 birds, you will return three birds to 4-H. If you order 25 birds, you will return five birds to a final 4-H Pullet Chain Auction, typically held after show season. Once the above is complete, the youth’s registration deposit is returned, and the remaining birds are theirs to keep for free. Proceeds from the auction help offset the cost of offering the project and all prizes/awards given throughout the year. Youth will also have opportunities to exhibit their poultry knowledge or showcase their 4-H project experience by participating in various educational opportunities leading up to the final show.
Also offered this year is the 4-H Laying Flock Project. The Laying Flock Project is for the youth who already have chickens at home and are not interested in ordering chicks from 4-H this year or they acquire them on their own by May 1, 2024. Participants have the same opportunities to show as those in the Pullet Chain. Participating in the Laying Flock Project costs $10 for 4-H members, and registration is open through May 1, 2024.
Youth registering for the SC 4-H Poultry Projects must also register and pay for their SC 4-H Membership at www.v2.4honline.com. The membership allows youth to participate in other 4-H projects offered for the year, including clubs, projects, and summer camps. The Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, gender identity, marital or family status, and is an equal opportunity employer.
             The 4-H Poultry Project, like our other animal projects, is a rewarding experience for young people. They learn responsibility and a vast array of life skills that will help them grow into versatile, well-rounded adults. 4-H animal projects, such as the 4-H Poultry Project, encourage the process of “discovery” of knowledge and solutions and build competence and confidence.
Youth must complete the poultry registration online to participate in the 4-H poultry projects. Assistance is available through local Clemson Extension Offices or online at https://www.clemson.edu/extension/4h/programs/ag-animals/livestock/poultry.html.

South Carolina 4-H Dairy Judging Contest
This event is open to South Carolina 4-H youth (5-18 years old as of January 1, 2024). Current 4-H membership is required for participation in this event. This evaluation contest will be held on Friday, March 22, at the T. Ed Garrison Arena, Pendleton, SC (1101 West Queen Street, Pendleton, SC, 29670). Please review the provided contest information below.
General Information
1. The contest check-in will be at 11:30 am, orientation is at 12:00 noon, and the contest will begin at 12:30 pm.
2. The awards program will be held after the contest.
3. All entries must be completed online by March 8, 2024. No late entries will be accepted. Corrections and substitutions will be accepted on the day of the contest. Refunds are available up to seven days before the event.
4. There will be a $15 registration fee for each individual or $45 per team (minimum of three, maximum of four team members.) Registration must be made online with a credit/debit card.
5. Any additional communication for the event will be made through the email address provided in the registration.
6. This event does not assume custodial care of youth in attendance. Parents, guardians, or chaperones must be present to supervise participants. Coaches will be responsible for providing meals/snacks for their youth.
7. Each contestant must bring two (2) sharpened No. 2 pencils as their writing instrument(s) and a clipboard/blank steno/notepad.
8. Direct questions to Tina Horn (Contest Superintendent) at thorn@clemson.edu and Heather Shultz at hkshult@clemson.edu.

2024 SC 4-H Small Garden Project
The 2024 SC 4-H Small Garden Project is now open for South Carolina youth registration. This project is a hands-on, environmental education program and a competitive, independent-study project that allows youth ages 5 through 18 an opportunity to establish, maintain, and harvest a small garden. The purpose of the Small Garden Project is to educate the youth of South Carolina on where and how their food is grown using hands-on, in-the-garden experiences.

Youth will set goals and plan activities and strategies to achieve those outcomes, even facing challenges. They will reflect on their work by documenting their skill development and learning experiences. They will give back to their communities through educational and service activities. Participating in this project will teach youth valuable record-keeping, financial management, and communication skills. They will ultimately become good stewards of the environment and gain technical expertise that can promote beneficial practices.

The cost is $25 for current 4-H members (non-members will be expected to enroll in 4HOnline for the 2023-2024 club year). If you would like to participate but do not have available land, your local Extension office may be able to help you locate a landowner or public space that could be made available to you.

Once youth register, 4-H will supply participants with a garden starter kit and other educational materials. Participants must plant at least two other crops of their choice. Participants will receive a printed project record book and newsletters/informational resources to help along the way.

Hurry! The deadline to register is Friday, April 5, 2024.

Contact your local Clemson Extension County office or visit the SC 4-H Small Garden Project Website: https://www.clemson.edu/extension/4h/program-areas/natural-resources/small-garden-project.html for more information and online registration.

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