New Mexico Southern Regional 4-H Livestock School
4-H and Youth Programming
Emily Bruton
County Director/Ag and 4-H Extension Agent
New Mexico State University
Socorro
Abstract
The New Mexico 4-H Southern Regional Livestock School was established in 2021 to address a statewide need for accessible, high-quality education for youth involved in livestock exhibition. Many young exhibitors begin their cattle, goat, sheep, and swine projects with limited access to hands-on instruction, species-specific management training, or industry expertise. Without these opportunities, youth often struggle to develop the technical skills and confidence necessary to successfully manage and present their animals. To address this gap, Extension agents from four New Mexico counties collaboratively developed the Southern Regional Livestock School as an immersive, skill-based educational experience. The program provides youth with direct instruction in livestock management, nutrition, health, conditioning, show preparation, and showmanship. Participants enroll by species and bring their own project animals, allowing them to immediately apply new techniques through demonstrations, small-group instruction, and guided practice. Each year, the planning committee recruits industry professionals and experienced exhibitors to serve as instructors, ensuring youth receive current, practical guidance aligned with industry standards. Since its inception, the school has served more than 500 youth from across the state. Evaluation data indicate measurable program impact, with participants reporting increased livestock management knowledge, improved daily care practices, and greater confidence in handling and exhibiting their animals. In 2025, the program expanded to include an educator track for new Extension agents, FFA teachers, and interns, strengthening statewide capacity to support youth livestock programs. The addition of scholarships and recognition awards further promotes goal setting, skill development, and sustained engagement in livestock projects. Program outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of this applied learning model. Notably, at least four participants have gone on to win showmanship titles at state or regional fairs, illustrating the program’s role in strengthening technical skills and supporting youth achievement in livestock exhibition. This presentation will explore the foundational concepts that guide the Southern Regional Livestock School, including program design, multi-county collaboration, instructor recruitment, and event logistics. Attendees will gain practical strategies for developing similar livestock education programs, along with lessons learned, implementation considerations, and key factors contributing to the program’s continued growth and success.
Authors: Emily Bruton, Savannah Daniels, Teresa Dean, Sara Marta
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Emily Bruton County Director/Ag and 4-H Extension Agent, New Mexico State University Socorro County Cooperative Extension, New Mexico, 87801
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Savannah Daniels County Director/Ag and 4-H Extension Agent, New Mexico State University Hidalgo County Cooperative Extension , New Mexico, 88045
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Teresa Dean County Director/4-H and Livestock Agent, New Mexico State University Dona Ana County Cooperative Extension, New Mexico, 88001
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Sara Marta County Director/Extension Agent, New Mexico State University Sierra County Cooperative Extension, New Mexico, 87901