Expanding Livestock Education Opportunities for Urban Youth Through the Bastian Agricultural Center 4-H Program
ISSN 2158-9429
Volume 19, Issue 1 - June 2026
Editor: Bindu Poudel-Ward
Dallin, J., Executive Director and Extension Associate Professor- USU Bastian Agricultural Center, Utah State University Extension
Francis, D., Executive Director and Extension Professor Utah 4-H and Utah State University Youth Programs, Utah State University Extension
Allen, S., 4-H Program Coordinator- Salt Lake County, Utah State University Extension
Abstract
Increasing urbanization has created barriers for youth interested in participating in traditional livestock projects due to limited access to land, facilities, and financial resources required to raise animals. In 2022, 4-H/FFA youth approached the Utah State University Bastian Agricultural Center after zoning regulations prohibited them from housing livestock at their residences. The youth partnered with the USU Bastian Agricultural Center to temporarily house the animals, supporting three youth raising six livestock. That effort expanded into a structured youth livestock program beginning in 2023. Participation increased from 23 youth raising 25 animals in 2023 to 64 youth raising 86 animals in 2025, with an additional poultry project introduced in fall 2025. Evaluation results indicated high satisfaction, strong youth development outcomes, and nearly 100% participant retention. By removing the requirement for youth to pay upfront livestock and feed costs, the program reduces financial barriers to participation while a cost-recovery auction model supports long-term program sustainability.
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