4-H MARKET HOG PROJECT
Extension Education
Mark Keaton
Retired
MOUNTAIN HOME
Abstract
Animal projects are a traditional 4-H trademark with a modern application. Animal science related projects provide numerous opportunities for youth to develop skills that will benefit them throughout their life. Managing daily needs of an animal promotes decision making,self-discipline,and problem solving. Record-keeping principles learned may later improve management of a business or family budget.In the 4-H Market Hog Project, 4-H'ers who are interested in raising swine and have the facilities may complete and submit an application to receive one feeder pig free of charge. Financial sponsorship of the feeder pigs is limited to twelve and the Cooperative Extension Service make contacts to secure these sponsorships. A committee selects the top twelve applicants; however, the other 4-H'ers that are not selected may purchase their own market pig. The 4-Her must raise and care for the pig and show the animal at the Baxter County Fair in September.Youth involved with the market hog project learn responsibility, self-discipline, goal setting, and decision making as well as management skills as they relate to their market hog project. Also, the 4-Her receives prize money and premium money from the junior livestock auction at the Baxter County Fair, and the hog is the 4-H'ers to keep or sell after the fair is over. For the grand champion and reserve grand champion market hogs the Cooperative Extension Service secured sponsors for belt buckles the winners receive at the county fair.There were 23 4-H'ers who participated in and completed this project in 2013.
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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.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: M.D. Keaton
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Keaton, M. CEA-STAFF CHAIR, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service Baxter County, Arkansas, 72653