La Plata County 4-H doesn’t want to discourage anyone from participating in our program because of financial concerns.
Our membership fee for joining is $25 for the entire year. However, we provide scholarships and accept volunteering hours in exchange for payment. We also look to help members and potential members find resources to offset project costs.
I would like to highlight a great opportunity being offered from our friends at American AgCredit. They have created an AgYouth program. This program is in coordination with 4-H clubs and Future Farmers of America chapters in Colorado. They are targeting young people who have an interest in becoming the farmers and ranchers of tomorrow.
The AgYouth program will assist qualifying 4-H/FFA members with interest-free loans for livestock projects. In addition, the program teaches the responsibility of being able to repay and honor financial obligations.
The program emphasizes the importance of keeping accurate records and budgeting. This program also provides real-life tools and skill building for members to move forward into a rewarding and successful agriculture career.
We would like to thank AgCredit for its commitment to invest in agriculture’s future. For more information about eligibility, project limits and guidelines, call the local office at 259-1540 or visit www.agloan.com.
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Education is essential for young and beginning farmers. A few of our 4-H members received hands-on education through participating in the Arizona National Livestock Show. Taylor and Kori Jenkins, Lucas Roderick, Krystalyn Anderson and Addison Zellitti all traveled to Phoenix at the end of last year.
Taylor, Kori and Lucas of the Ignacio Westerners 4-H Club brought down their swine to compete. Lucas earned a ribbon for his eighth-place Yorkshire purebred show class. Kori also earned a ribbon for her fourth-place Crossbred gilt class.
Finally, Taylor did well in receiving a sixth overall in the Jr. Swine Showmanship division. In addition, she was seventh overall in Livestock Judging.
Krystalyn of the Westside Wranglers 4-H Club had a great time bringing her goats. She received seventh- and 13th-place ribbons for her respective classes. She also represented 4-H by participating in Livestock Judging.
Finally, Addison of the Weaselskinners 4-H Club competed in the Beef shows. Addison won Grand Champion for the British Ring 2 and Reserve Grand Champion in British Ring 1 divisions. Way to go, Addison.
Just participating in a National Livestock Show is major accomplishment in itself. The hard work and commitment is a great learning experience.
Big thanks to families for traveling and supporting your children in reaching their goals. I am very proud of the way everyone represents La Plata County 4-H in the region.
Next up is the National Western Stock Show in Denver. We will have plenty of 4-H members heading to the capital city to compete.
Good luck!
Greg Felsen is the La Plata County 4-H youth development agent. Reach him at felsengh@co.laplata.co.us or 382-6463.
