4-H Programs Innovate to Provide Livestock Experience for Non-Farm Youth in South Dakota
South Dakota communities are developing innovative programs through 4-H to allow non-farm youth to gain experience in raising livestock. As populations increasingly move away from agricultural settings, these initiatives aim to bridge the gap and introduce young people to animal care and the broader agriculture industry. For instance, in Potter County, the Gettysburg school FFA program has partnered with the local 4-H office to lease pigs to interested youth. These animals are housed on school-owned property and cared for by participating students on a rotational basis. Jean Senyak, SDSU Extension 4-H Program Assistant for Potter County, noted that 37 youth are involved in this project, many of whom reside in town and would otherwise lack exposure to pigs. Similarly, in Brule County, 4-H alumnus Marty Michalek secures sponsors to help cover the cost of sheep, goats, or pigs for local youth, matching animals with owners through a lottery system. These programs emphasize hands-on experience and introduce par...
