Youth Livestock Field Day
Extension Education
Jennifer Patterson
Ext Ed Ag/4H
Stilwell
Abstract
The Adair County OSU Extension “Youth Livestock Field Day” was developed in 2021 to provide an annual educational event focused on youth and the livestock industry. The program's goals were to educate youth on best practices in livestock husbandry, nutrition, health, and management while increasing their awareness of the economic and agricultural importance of livestock in Oklahoma. This awareness is vital for the sustainability of the state’s livestock industry. And by investing in youth livestock education, we cultivate informed consumers and future industry leaders who will ensure the sustainability of agriculture for generations to come.
The field days provided an interactive, hands-on learning experience that encouraged both youth and adult participation. Activities included a live cow with the ruminant digestive system painted on her sides, allowing participants to visualize how cattle digest feedstuffs. The nutrition session featured real feed and forage samples, where attendees could handle, smell, and weigh feed while learning about balanced rations. Participants also engaged in manure scoring, learning how animal behavior and manure observations can indicate health issues. They were introduced to common internal parasites and best management practices to reduce parasite loads. OSU Extension’s Dystocia Simulators for cattle and small ruminants were used to provide hands-on training in recognizing normal and abnormal birth presentations, helping participants understand when intervention is necessary. Additionally, during one of the field days, participants witnessed Dr. Burton assisting a dairy doe with a difficult birth.
Other activities included an introduction to a Vet Science Skill-a-Thon, demonstrations of low-stress livestock handling techniques, and open discussions with OSU Extension specialists and veterinarians about the impact of the livestock industry in Oklahoma.
Survey results indicated a strong program impact: 100% of youth and adults expressed interest in making the event annual, and participants reported 125% increase in knowledge in livestock management practices, specifically nutrition, digestion, internal parasites and when to assist during calving. Some suggestions for improvement were to include activities with more species (pigs, horses, poultry, etc.). Future sessions will aim to expand content and improve participant engagement.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Jennifer Patterson, Earl Ward
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Patterson, J. Ext Ed Ag , OSU Extension, Oklahoma, 74074
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Ward, E. OSU Extension Area Livestock Specialist, OSU Extension, Oklahoma, 74401