Applications Now Available for Regional Youth Livestock Group

Cornell Cooperative Extension in the Capital Region’s youth-oriented program called “Livestock Explorers” and applications are now available. Modeled after the current “Dairy Visions” program, the plan is to expose interested youth 14-18 years old to a variety of beef production systems, marketing information, career opportunities and business owners through meetings, field trips and tours.

Many of the region’s livestock-oriented youth view their prospects as culminating in showing their animals at their local fair. But there are many more openings available if they only knew and understood what is possible. Gaining exposure to commercial operations, larger-scale thinking and successful enterprises can provide participants with new information and ways of thinking. With the growing local foods focus in our communities and beyond, new markets and opportunities will continue to open.

The first version of this program was originally focused on beef but we are expanding to cover a larger group of livestock issues. Tours and visits will travel to more than seven counties in the region!

The applications from interested participants should be returned by August 14, 2013. Please visit http://blogs.cornell.edu/capitalareaagandhortprogram  to obtain an application or call Sandy Buxton at 518-746-2560 for more information. The program will begin in September/October and continue through to June. Participants will be expected to participate in a final project demonstrating some of the information they have learned through the program.

Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities. Please contact your local office for more information on this or other programs.