Iowa 4-H youth were eager to showcase their animals at the 2022 Iowa State Fair. They exhibited over 5,500 4-H livestock and horticulture entries this year.
A record number of swine and meat goats were exhibited in 4-H livestock shows. Youth exhibited over 1,500 animals in the 4-H Swine shows on Aug. 15 and 16, and 369 animals in the 4-H Meat Goat shows.
"Youth gain so many positive skills by exhibiting in animal project areas," explained Mike Anderson, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach 4-H agriculture and natural resources program manager. "4-H members can learn responsibility, sportsmanship and confidence in all animal project areas. Important skills are also developed in animal science related to animal care, feeding, record keeping and safety through project area work year-round."
Nearly 2,000 Iowa youth participated in 4-H livestock and horticulture exhibits during the 2022 Iowa State Fair.
"The 4-H Horticulture show had a 31% increase in entries for 2022 totaling 482, including a variety of entries from garden crops, herbs and ornamentals," Anderson said. "This is a great way for youth to get involved in a project right in their backyard, improve their gardening skills while providing a healthy food source for their family."
For more information on the Iowa 4-H Youth Development program, contact your ISU Extension and Outreach county office or visit the Iowa 4-H website at www.extension.iastate.edu/4h.
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle