Animal Science Ambassadors advocate for agricultural industry
Extension Education
Carole Knight
Extension 4-H Specialist
University of Georgia
Athens
Abstract
Food animal production (livestock and poultry) contributes $9.3 billion to the annual Farm Gate of Georgia (The University of Georgia Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development, 2024). That represents over 51% of all agricultural production in the state. However, according to the most recent USDA Ag Census, the average age of agricultural producers in the state is getting older, with 40% of farmers being 65 years old and older. The need to develop and inspire young people to learn about and get involved in food animal production is vital to its survival. It is important for youth to learn to be advocates for the food animal production industry. The goal of the Georgia 4-H Ambassador Program, established in 2005, is to prepare 9th – 12th grade 4-H’ers to become knowledgeable in a specific content area so that they can return to their counties and share what they’ve learned with others. The 4-H Ambassador Program requires a one-year commitment that begins upon completion of Ambassador Training at the Ambassador Training Summit. Georgia 4-H Ambassadors must commit to completing the following activities during their year of service: complete six learning activities related to their subject area; complete six sharing activities related to their subject area; and provide quarterly reports. In 2023, the Animal Science Ambassador track was added to the program. The mission of the Livestock Ambassador Program is to provide educational experiences for youth to explore their interest in animal and poultry science. The program focuses on connecting youth with local animal production systems and industries, exploring the richness and diversity of animal production, developing advocacy skills, and increasing their access to career and post-secondary opportunities in animal and poultry sciences. Since its introduction 2-years ago, 27 youth have served as Animal Science Ambassadors. These young people have completed 92 learning activities, totaling 202 hours, and 88 sharing activities that have directly and indirectly reached 29,317 people.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Carole Knight
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Knight, C. Extension 4-H Specialist, University of Georgia , Georgia, 30602