In Lake County, feedback from families, volunteers and youths in the Oregon State University Extension Service 4-H Youth Development Program revealed a need for more hands-on learning. Youths wanted experiences working directly with animals to build confidence and improve their showmanship and care skills.
Participants left the clinics more confident and better prepared for the fair season. Many also built stronger connections with peers, mentors and community members.
In response, OSU Extension in Lake County organized a series of livestock fitting and showing clinics in 2022. The events were open to both 4-H and FFA members and offered real-time instruction in supportive, hands-on settings.
Clinics were held in Paisley and Lakeview and focused on cattle, swine, sheep, goats, dogs, rabbits and poultry. Youths had the opportunity to work with their own animals or practice on-site with live animals provided.
At the cattle clinic in Paisley, youths practiced clipping, fitting, stall setup and showmanship over two days. Twenty youths and 20 adults attended, and local sponsors contributed more than $1,000.
The swine clinic in Lakeview covered feeding, grooming, clipping, show ring preparation and showmanship. More than 20 youths and 20 adults participated, supported by over $1,000 in sponsorships.
The sheep and goat clinic in Paisley included animal selection, feeding, washing, fitting and real-time showmanship feedback. Over 20 youths and 25 adults attended, with $1,500 in sponsor support.
The dog clinic in Lakeview covered obedience, handling, bathing, show attire and ring etiquette. All nine 4-H dog project members and their families participated and practiced with their own dogs.
The rabbit and poultry clinic provided hands-on training in feeding, nutrition, selection, handling and fitting. More than 25 youths and 15 adults attended, using live animals for practice.
Across all clinics, youths received direct instruction, practical feedback and opportunities to grow their skills. Parents and volunteers also benefited from learning how to support participants in daily care and show preparation.
Participants left the clinics more confident and better prepared for the fair season. Many also built stronger connections with peers, mentors and community members.
By expanding learning opportunities beyond the club setting, OSU Extension helps rural youths build lifelong skills, deepen agricultural knowledge and take pride in their achievements. These programs foster positive youth development and strengthen the future of Oregon’s communities.
