A state economist says family farms are on their way out, but one local group is looking to continue agriculture's storied tradition in the Gem State.
Monday, Bannock County 4-Hers were getting stalls ready for the urban livestock program and Missy Cummins, Extension Educator, says the goal of the program is simple.
“The idea is to reconnect kids to basically where their food comes from and also to give them the country ethics of working hard and raising livestock animals,” said Cummins. “It isn't like raising a dog.”
Started with $20,000 grant from the Fred Meyer Foundation the urban livestock program will allow 20 city-kids to experience farm life first hand. Rather than making their way to a ranch, the 4-Her's calf will be housed at the Bannock County Fairgrounds. The kids will care for it and eventually show the calf during the county fair.
“A lot of them really don't know what to expect but they're pretty excited,” Cummins said. “4-H is about teaching life skills to kids, it helps them to become better people, it teaches them to be responsible and to learn how to set goals. I'm hoping that's what this program will do for these kids.”
One of those lending a hand Monday afternoon was Sierra Shoemaker. And for her 4-H has been a family tradition
“My mom and grandmother both did 4-H,”said Shoemaker. “I've been doing 4-H for seven years now, since I was about ten and I love it, its real fun and you learn a lot.”
But for others helping out, their reasons for joining 4-H are a little simpler.
“Because we learn a lot and I really like everybody who does it,” said Alex Jensen. “It's just a lot of fun to do.”
The urban livestock program will be getting their calves Tuesday.
MORE PICTURES TO COME
No comments:
Post a Comment