Russell 4-H Poultry Activities : One county’s holistic approach to poultry education
Extension Education
Geni Payne
Regional Extension Agent II - 4-H
Alabama Cooperative Extension System
Phenix City
Abstract
Agricultural literacy continues to decline nationwide, underscoring the need for youth programs that connect students to food systems and modern farming practices. In Russell County, Alabama, poultry science serves as an accessible and high-impact gateway for introducing youth to agriculture. The objective of the Russell 4-H Poultry Program is to provide hands-on, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that build knowledge of poultry production while fostering critical thinking, leadership, and life skills. The program uses a multi-component, holistic approach that includes Embryology, the Poultry Project, the Next Generation Poultry Club, Poultry BBQ, Avian Bowl, the Golden Egg Contest, and cultural enrichment activities such as Pysanka egg art. Methods integrate experiential learning, classroom instruction, project-based activities, competitive events, virtual meetings, and member-led teaching. Over the past three years, youth reported substantial gains in poultry industry knowledge (100%), poultry care (82%), recordkeeping (78%), and awareness of poultry careers (100%). All participants indicated they would encourage peers to join in the future. The program also produced multiple regional and state contest winners and the 2025 National Poultry BBQ Champion, demonstrating strong skill acquisition and competitive readiness. These results indicate that the Russell 4-H Poultry Program successfully increases agricultural literacy, enhances practical animal science skills, and nurtures leadership among youth participants. The holistic structure of the curriculum; combined with its accessibility, cultural components, and youth-led instruction; provides a replicable model for strengthening agricultural education and engagement across diverse communities.
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: Geni Payne
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Payne, G. Regional Extension Agent II - 4-H, ACES-Auburn University, Alabama, 36867