Note: This site is for reviewing legacy plan of work data from 2007-2011. If you are looking for the current plan of work interface, visit pow.nmsu.edu.
Youth Development (San Juan County)
Plan Goals
This plan deals with Project Work; Special Interest; School Enrichment; Competition; Clinics; Workshops; Outreach Efforts; Record Books; Camps; Fairs; County Council; Officer Trainings; Junior/Teen Leaders; Anything related to YOUTH programming.
- Owner
- Related Plans
-
Youth Development
Impact Reports
Situation
San Juan County has 527 traditional 4-H members including 81 Cloverbud members. Of the 446 traditional members, 142 were 1st year members, 148 were 2-3 year members, and 156 were members for over 4 years. The county has Thirty-two community clubs for members to join and be a part of. The number of clubs has reduced because of a new bylaw that requires a minimum number of members per club. 98% of the members developed skills relating to the projects they were enrolled in as is evident through their project completion which includes, but not limited to, livestock shows, pet shows, county contests, rodeos, horse shows, indoor project competition and record book completion. 75% of the members displayed leadership traits through local club work by serving as officers, committee members, pledge leaders, etc. Members also demonstrated leadership qualities by serving as County Council Officers and participating in various 4-H activities such as county contests, council meetings state and national events.
The Agent was mainly responsible for the agricultural and natural resource side of the 4-H program as well as assisting with County Council events for the 2010-11 program year. Programs this year include:
Youth Development
Junior Livestock Program
The Agent spent a substantial amount of time in assisting members, parents and volunteer leaders in the Junior Livestock Program. This program is designed to directly impact youth and increase their life skills. Members complete their projects at the San Juan County Fair, New Mexico State Fair, Arizona National Livestock Show, and National Western Livestock Show in Denver. In 2011 the San Juan County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised over $435,000 in sale receipts and “add-on’s” to 4-H members that made the sale as well as members that had non sale animals. This represents almost a ninety thousand (90,000) dollar increase over last year! This past year in the county we had 48 market steers, 121 market sheep, 193 market swine, 79 market goats, 62 breeding animals (including beef, sheep, and goats), 32 show horses, 152 poultry entries, and 96 rabbit entries. These numbers represent a similar representation as last year but a significant decrease from two years ago due to the area‘s economy and the ever increasing costs of the program.
Many programs within the Junior Livestock program were developed and delivered to assist members and help make their experience in the program a positive learning one. Programs include:
• Market Steer Selection & Feeding Workshop- The agent collaborated with a local feed dealer to deliver a program in to members, leaders and parents about selection, feeding, facilities and care of a market steer/breeding heifer. Handouts were provided to families to assist throughout the year. Many examples were given to both positive attributes and negative attributes on many market steers to improve the member’s chances of having a good experience. This program concluded with many question and answers. The agent offered his services to help members select animals at sales and farms and this offer was taken up by many of the members. The agent educated members and leaders on all aspects of raising beef for show and gave members valuable information to assist them in the learning process of raising show cattle. Through this education, members developed skills in all aspects of raising and showing beef animals as well as life skills which include sportsmanship, responsibility, and dedication. Although only a few members and leaders attended, those that attended changed their attitude and increased the quality of animals purchased and were successful in the show ring.
• Steer Weigh Days- The agent worked individually with families on weighing steers. With the increasing number of scales through the county, the agent teamed families together with scales. The agent also met families at the fairgrounds to weigh and evaluate projects. Weights were recorded to show the amount of growth in a period of time and assisted members on feeding programs. The animals were evaluated by the agent and suggestions were given to help make the project a success. 100% of the members showing market beef attended at least one weigh day throughout the year.
• Steer Jackpots- Members from the county attended jackpots in Portales, Las Cruces, and Farmington. The agent assisted members in preparation of their steers before leaving to attend the jackpots in Portales, Farmington, and Las Cruces. Grooming and showing techniques were taught to members and parents to increase knowledge and success in the show ring. The agent was directly responsible for preparing and putting on the “Sno-Ball Classic” Jackpot in Farmington. The agent was responsible for securing judges, facilities, prizes, money. The agent developed advertising to promote the jackpot and recruited members to participate to develop skills necessary to be successful at showing and raising cattle. Although this jackpot is co-sponsored with the Aztec FFA Alumni, this year all of the responsibilities fell upon the agent. This year we had 48 calves showed up from Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico, several more local 4-H Members came to watch and learn. The jackpot was a great experience and gave members an opportunity to exhibit their 4-H project and “Learn by Doing”.
• Market Swine Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leaders, and parents on market swine selection, care, and feeding. A PowerPoint presentation was given to stress the importance of proper selection techniques in selecting market show swine as well as many feeding options. Issues relating to muscle, leanness, and structure were discussed. The agent covered proper facilities and show time preparation. Members left with a feeling of excitement as they participated in the seminar and expressed their gratitude for the information and was followed up with many calls about raising show swine. The agent also had a section dedicated to show ring ethics. Although only 5 members and parents participated, those that did expressed gratitude toward the agent for the knowledge and handouts to make a successful experience.
The agent is directly responsible for putting on the Aztec FFA Alumni Pig Sale. The agent secures facilities, arranges for the breeders, arranges for a auctioneer ring help and clerks. The agent sets up the sale ring and assists members in selection of a market swine project. The past two years the grand champion and reserve grand champion were purchased through the sale. This has been a great opportunity for our members as well as a fundraiser for Aztec FFA Alumni scholarships for local youth.
• Market Lamb Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leader, and parents over show lamb selection, nutrition, facilities, health, and ethics. A PowerPoint presentation as prepared by the agent to show actual lambs and to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many questions were answered and anxiety levels lowered as a result of this workshop. Although participation was poor in the workshop the five members and parents that participated in this event expressed their gratefulness and went on to select lambs that excelled at the county fair as well as the Shiprock Fair.
• Pig & Lamb Jackpot- This year the agent assisted with the “Four Corners Pig & Lamb Expo”. The Agent recruited volunteers to assist with the jackpot with check-in, announcing, ring help, and computer work. The agent worked with a local 4-H club with several planning meetings to discuss judges, prizes, concessions, and general preparation for the jackpot. Many hours were dedicated to making this jackpot a positive experience for 4-H youth and make this a learning situation for youth in the junior livestock program. 89 swine and 14 lambs were exhibited. 4-H members throughout the state as well as Colorado and Arizona gained experience in their 4-H projects through this experience. Members had a chance to prepare for the county fair by getting out in the show ring and practicing the skills that they learned at the agent’s workshop. This is a great reinforcement tool and members learned valuable skills relating to showmanship and their animals.
• San Juan County Fair- The San Juan County Fair is the largest county Fair in New Mexico. The agent is responsible for securing NMLB tags and setting up tag days for all species that enter the county fair as well as the NM State Fair. The agent works with volunteers to make sure all tags are inserted properly and that the tags are accounted for. This year the agent also secured RIFD tag readers to make check-in run smoothly. The Fair runs eight days and members exhibit their animals as well as indoor entries for the entire length of the fair. Over 200 members exhibit 4-H animal projects. 124 entries qualify for the Junior Livestock sale that brought in over $343,000 dollars and another $90,000 dollars were brought in for add-on’s for both sale and non-sale exhibitors. This money went directly to the youth for their hard work and efforts. The agent assisted many members while at the show and assisted with shows and performed many odd jobs during the week. Our county fair provides a great economic value as well as a positive learning experience for the youth of San Juan County. Many of the members that do not make the premium sale receive a large sum of money for their animals from local business to assist in making the 4-H animal project a positive experience. 324 indoor 4-H projects were exhibited by members at the county fair. This indicates members are completing their projects and learning life skills.
• New Mexico State Fair- The agent spent eight days assisting members at the State Fair. The Agent also assisted with the calf scramble show and designed and assisted with the county booth. San Juan County had thirty two members show animals at the state fair that included swine, beef, sheep, goats, dogs and horses. Two members made the premium sale and sold their animals for a fair profit. San Juan Co. entered 76 exhibits from 44 4-H members in the indoor 4-H projects. Members placed well and had a chance to exhibit their projects for many visitors to enjoy! The New Mexico State Fair is a great learning experience for the members to exhibit their projects that they have worked on for the entire year.
• Home Visits- The agent made countless home visits throughout the year to assist members with their projects. While on home visits the agent evaluated the member’s animals as well as trimmed cattle hooves, scrapie tagged sheep, tattooed animals, assisted in DNA extraction for the New Mexico State Fair and national shows. Home visits are a great way for the agent to interact with members and parents on a one on one basis in a setting they felt comfortable in and able to ask many questions relating to the junior livestock program. Many times a livestock pen turns into an outdoor classroom and skills are animal husbandry skills are learned by 4-H members.
San Juan County 4-H Council
The Agent works with the youth council especially the Treasurer with quarterly financial reports as well as an annual report and breakdown to the Board of Trustees. The Council meets four times a year to discuss county 4-H business and make decisions for the county program. The agent works with the youth leaders to develop an agenda and execute the meetings. An Annual Awards Banquet is held in November to recognize members and leaders for their hard work throughout the year. The youth plan and execute the banquet and are responsible for all aspects of the annual banquet. The agent acts as a resource for the council officers and works with other agents in the office to coordinate activities throughout the year. The Council sponsors the County Carnival. This event brings all the clubs together for fun, recreation, and fundraising. This year over 300 member, parents, leaders, and friends enjoyed an evening of 4-H fun. The agent assisted in organizing this event with the county council officers.
4-H Horse Program
San Juan County 4-H has an active horse program. The special interest club is called the Hoofbeat Gang. This club holds monthly meeting and semi-monthly clinics. Hoofbeat has thirty members. They elect officers and make club decisions at monthly meetings. The agent is responsible for finding adult leadership and for the past year three years; two volunteer leaders came forward to assume and share the duties of the club. The club raises money to assist member to attend State Horse School and to assist the members in their horsemanship abilities through fun shows and clinics. Two members participated in District and State 4-H Horse Show. six members participated in NMSF Horse Show. The club ends it year with a banquet and members are rewarded and recognized for their efforts. The agent works closely with the leaders to plan for facilities, events, and county fair youth horse show. This year our county hosted the Northwest District Horse Show. Thirty-four 4-H members participated including seven from San Juan County. The agent assisted in all aspects of the show and assisted volunteer leaders and other 4-H agents where needed. Members from around the district were appreciative and learned many valuable skills including horsemanship, sportsmanship, responsibility and dedication to name a few. This activity was beneficial to the youth of the district.
4-H Rodeo
San Juan County 4-H has an active rodeo club with fifty six members that hold six monthly rodeos and two rodeos at the San Juan County Fair.. These rodeos make up a series that include end of the year awards. This is a saddle series, but many prizes are given including belt buckles, blankets, equipment, and jackets to name a few. Every member receives some sort of award and recognition at the end of the year for their hard work and dedication. The Agent worked with the officials and officers to ensure a quality rodeo for all the participants. Through this program members learn many life skills that include responsibility, safety, sportsmanship, and horsemanship. Through this club both adult and youth are elected to serve as officers and board members and decisions are made at monthly club meetings. Through the dedication of these individuals, a high quality program is delivered to many youth participants throughout the state. The agent works very closely with the leaders of the club to insure all rules are being followed and to assist in the preparations of the rodeos. The agent is also a liaison between the 4-H rodeo club and the fair board. The agent is called upon frequently to assist with situations which arise within the club. At the end of the year the club holds a banquet and members are rewarded for their efforts throughout the year. Rodeo safety is an important aspect of the sport. Every member is required to attend a safety class given by a certified county EMT. Proper paper work is required including a rodeo waiver and insurance information. The Agent is responsible for all correspondence between the insurance company and the rodeo members. Providing the safest environment is always in mind for the 4-H members participating.
4-H Shooting Sports
San Juan County has an active shooting sports program. Disciplines include shotgun, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, air rifle, compound archery and recurve archery. Our shooting sports program begins in late September with an organizational meeting presented by the agent and volunteer leaders. The agent is responsible for finding leaders in each discipline and working with the San Juan Wildlife Federation Range to schedule practices at the only range in the county. Every member is required to receive safety training and the agent always recruits leaders that emphasize safety above everything else. Bi-weekly practices are held in the fall and weekly practices are held in each discipline in the spring. 27 members participated in practices throughout the year and members participated in county contests as well as district for the novice and junior members and state for the senior members. 4-H members from San Juan County are always prepared for district and state competitions and display safety at all the events. The agent also served as the match director for the State Archery contest. Responsibilities included setting up the FIDA and 3-D courses to specifications and running the contest. Over 50 members state-wide participated in this weekend event held at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton. NM.
State and National Events
This year 13 members and two volunteer leaders participated in Senior Leadership Retreat in Albuquerque. Members learned many valuable leadership skills that they brought back to the county program. The also got a chance to meet and socialize with other 4-H members throughout the state. Ten members and a leader participated in Youth Get-Away at Camp Inlow this year. All the members had a great time and learned communication and team building skills. The also got a chance to get to know other members throughout the state. The Agent held a mandatory orientation meeting with the youth to complete all the necessary paperwork in advance. 16 members got a chance to participate in State 4-H Conference. These members judged at the state level and were part of the State 4-H Council and electing a new leadership team. The agent directly trained the livestock, livestock skillathon, and meats team. The Livestock team won second and the skillathon team and Meats ID team both won the state contest and will participate in the national 4-H meats contest in Kansas City. The county had high point individual in both skillathon and meats and the meats team had all three of its members in the top four of the contest! This was a great accomplishment by our youth. This past year the agent trained and chaperoned both the Livestock Skillathon and Livestock team for the National 4-H contest in Louisville, KY. Many hours were spent working with these youth to prepare them for the contests. The skillathon team placed 6th in the nation and although we did not place in the Livestock contest, we had many individual accomplishments and place 5th overall in the swine division. The agent will train and take responsibility for the National trip this fall to Kansas City. The agent also works with local FFA chapters and trains youth involved in 4-H as well as FFA. This past year youth trained by the agent won 2nd place in both meats and livestock at the State FFA Contest and the agent will continue to train these youth for contests in Kansas City and Denver. The agent has a good working relationship with all the FFA chapters in the county. Sixty-eight members participated in a county contests. The agent was responsible for organizing the contests, setting up contests, grading contests, and recruiting leaders to assist. The County Council officers awarded the winners with ribbons and certificates. Forty-one members from San Juan County participated in the NE/NW 4-H District contest in Estancia, NM. The agent trained teams and was responsible for the horticulture contest and livestock contest serving as co-superintendent. The members from our county did very well in all aspects of the competition and represented the program well. San Juan County 4-H members were well represented and won many awards during the two day event. This year the agent organized a livestock judging contest at the county fair for the first time ever. With over twenty-two youth practicing livestock judging in the county, the agent wanted to give these youth an opportunity to judge one more time this year. The agent coordinated this through the fair board and got buckle sponsors for all three divisions. The agent coordinated reason takers, classes, and tabulators to help facilitate this contest. Thirty-one youth participated and turned out to be a great success.
4-H Ski School
The agent schedules and plans for two 4-H ski schools at Durango Mountain Resort at Purgatory in conjunction with the other 4-h Agent in the county. This event is a day of fun for the members and La Plata County 4-H in Colorado is also invited. The youth receive a ½ day lesson and ½ day of skiing/snowboarding. Members get a chance to enjoy one another without competition and build many 4-H friendships. This year 83 members and 35 volunteers participated in the event. This fun event is the highlight of many 4-H members year.
Expanded 4-H
The agent is responsible for delivering the Master Seed Program to the 4th graders of San Juan County in cooperation with Master Gardner graduates. This is a program that teaches the basics of plant growth including soil, seeds, photosynthesis, plant nutrient needs, and insects. Every student has the opportunity to plant a seed in soil and watch it form and grow. The agent along with master gardeners, present this information directly to the students throughout the county. This year 1064 student’s received instruction in the master seed program and was once again a huge success with the students and teachers.
The agent spends time working with local FFA chapters with career development events and training youth in livestock judging, parliamentary procedure, wool, meats, and poultry. Over thirty youth were directly taught and assisted in decision making skill events.
San Juan County has 527 traditional 4-H members including 81 Cloverbud members. Of the 446 traditional members, 142 were 1st year members, 148 were 2-3 year members, and 156 were members for over 4 years. The county has Thirty-two community clubs for members to join and be a part of. The number of clubs has reduced because of a new bylaw that requires a minimum number of members per club. 98% of the members developed skills relating to the projects they were enrolled in as is evident through their project completion which includes, but not limited to, livestock shows, pet shows, county contests, rodeos, horse shows, indoor project competition and record book completion. 75% of the members displayed leadership traits through local club work by serving as officers, committee members, pledge leaders, etc. Members also demonstrated leadership qualities by serving as County Council Officers and participating in various 4-H activities such as county contests, council meetings state and national events.
The Agent was mainly responsible for the agricultural and natural resource side of the 4-H program as well as assisting with County Council events for the 2010-11 program year. Programs this year include:
Youth Development
Junior Livestock Program
The Agent spent a substantial amount of time in assisting members, parents and volunteer leaders in the Junior Livestock Program. This program is designed to directly impact youth and increase their life skills. Members complete their projects at the San Juan County Fair, New Mexico State Fair, Arizona National Livestock Show, and National Western Livestock Show in Denver. In 2011 the San Juan County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised over $435,000 in sale receipts and “add-on’s” to 4-H members that made the sale as well as members that had non sale animals. This represents almost a ninety thousand (90,000) dollar increase over last year! This past year in the county we had 48 market steers, 121 market sheep, 193 market swine, 79 market goats, 62 breeding animals (including beef, sheep, and goats), 32 show horses, 152 poultry entries, and 96 rabbit entries. These numbers represent a similar representation as last year but a significant decrease from two years ago due to the area‘s economy and the ever increasing costs of the program.
Many programs within the Junior Livestock program were developed and delivered to assist members and help make their experience in the program a positive learning one. Programs include:
• Market Steer Selection & Feeding Workshop- The agent collaborated with a local feed dealer to deliver a program in to members, leaders and parents about selection, feeding, facilities and care of a market steer/breeding heifer. Handouts were provided to families to assist throughout the year. Many examples were given to both positive attributes and negative attributes on many market steers to improve the member’s chances of having a good experience. This program concluded with many question and answers. The agent offered his services to help members select animals at sales and farms and this offer was taken up by many of the members. The agent educated members and leaders on all aspects of raising beef for show and gave members valuable information to assist them in the learning process of raising show cattle. Through this education, members developed skills in all aspects of raising and showing beef animals as well as life skills which include sportsmanship, responsibility, and dedication. Although only a few members and leaders attended, those that attended changed their attitude and increased the quality of animals purchased and were successful in the show ring.
• Steer Weigh Days- The agent worked individually with families on weighing steers. With the increasing number of scales through the county, the agent teamed families together with scales. The agent also met families at the fairgrounds to weigh and evaluate projects. Weights were recorded to show the amount of growth in a period of time and assisted members on feeding programs. The animals were evaluated by the agent and suggestions were given to help make the project a success. 100% of the members showing market beef attended at least one weigh day throughout the year.
• Steer Jackpots- Members from the county attended jackpots in Portales, Las Cruces, and Farmington. The agent assisted members in preparation of their steers before leaving to attend the jackpots in Portales, Farmington, and Las Cruces. Grooming and showing techniques were taught to members and parents to increase knowledge and success in the show ring. The agent was directly responsible for preparing and putting on the “Sno-Ball Classic” Jackpot in Farmington. The agent was responsible for securing judges, facilities, prizes, money. The agent developed advertising to promote the jackpot and recruited members to participate to develop skills necessary to be successful at showing and raising cattle. Although this jackpot is co-sponsored with the Aztec FFA Alumni, this year all of the responsibilities fell upon the agent. This year we had 48 calves showed up from Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico, several more local 4-H Members came to watch and learn. The jackpot was a great experience and gave members an opportunity to exhibit their 4-H project and “Learn by Doing”.
• Market Swine Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leaders, and parents on market swine selection, care, and feeding. A PowerPoint presentation was given to stress the importance of proper selection techniques in selecting market show swine as well as many feeding options. Issues relating to muscle, leanness, and structure were discussed. The agent covered proper facilities and show time preparation. Members left with a feeling of excitement as they participated in the seminar and expressed their gratitude for the information and was followed up with many calls about raising show swine. The agent also had a section dedicated to show ring ethics. Although only 5 members and parents participated, those that did expressed gratitude toward the agent for the knowledge and handouts to make a successful experience.
The agent is directly responsible for putting on the Aztec FFA Alumni Pig Sale. The agent secures facilities, arranges for the breeders, arranges for a auctioneer ring help and clerks. The agent sets up the sale ring and assists members in selection of a market swine project. The past two years the grand champion and reserve grand champion were purchased through the sale. This has been a great opportunity for our members as well as a fundraiser for Aztec FFA Alumni scholarships for local youth.
• Market Lamb Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leader, and parents over show lamb selection, nutrition, facilities, health, and ethics. A PowerPoint presentation as prepared by the agent to show actual lambs and to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many questions were answered and anxiety levels lowered as a result of this workshop. Although participation was poor in the workshop the five members and parents that participated in this event expressed their gratefulness and went on to select lambs that excelled at the county fair as well as the Shiprock Fair.
• Pig & Lamb Jackpot- This year the agent assisted with the “Four Corners Pig & Lamb Expo”. The Agent recruited volunteers to assist with the jackpot with check-in, announcing, ring help, and computer work. The agent worked with a local 4-H club with several planning meetings to discuss judges, prizes, concessions, and general preparation for the jackpot. Many hours were dedicated to making this jackpot a positive experience for 4-H youth and make this a learning situation for youth in the junior livestock program. 89 swine and 14 lambs were exhibited. 4-H members throughout the state as well as Colorado and Arizona gained experience in their 4-H projects through this experience. Members had a chance to prepare for the county fair by getting out in the show ring and practicing the skills that they learned at the agent’s workshop. This is a great reinforcement tool and members learned valuable skills relating to showmanship and their animals.
• San Juan County Fair- The San Juan County Fair is the largest county Fair in New Mexico. The agent is responsible for securing NMLB tags and setting up tag days for all species that enter the county fair as well as the NM State Fair. The agent works with volunteers to make sure all tags are inserted properly and that the tags are accounted for. This year the agent also secured RIFD tag readers to make check-in run smoothly. The Fair runs eight days and members exhibit their animals as well as indoor entries for the entire length of the fair. Over 200 members exhibit 4-H animal projects. 124 entries qualify for the Junior Livestock sale that brought in over $343,000 dollars and another $90,000 dollars were brought in for add-on’s for both sale and non-sale exhibitors. This money went directly to the youth for their hard work and efforts. The agent assisted many members while at the show and assisted with shows and performed many odd jobs during the week. Our county fair provides a great economic value as well as a positive learning experience for the youth of San Juan County. Many of the members that do not make the premium sale receive a large sum of money for their animals from local business to assist in making the 4-H animal project a positive experience. 324 indoor 4-H projects were exhibited by members at the county fair. This indicates members are completing their projects and learning life skills.
• New Mexico State Fair- The agent spent eight days assisting members at the State Fair. The Agent also assisted with the calf scramble show and designed and assisted with the county booth. San Juan County had thirty two members show animals at the state fair that included swine, beef, sheep, goats, dogs and horses. Two members made the premium sale and sold their animals for a fair profit. San Juan Co. entered 76 exhibits from 44 4-H members in the indoor 4-H projects. Members placed well and had a chance to exhibit their projects for many visitors to enjoy! The New Mexico State Fair is a great learning experience for the members to exhibit their projects that they have worked on for the entire year.
• Home Visits- The agent made countless home visits throughout the year to assist members with their projects. While on home visits the agent evaluated the member’s animals as well as trimmed cattle hooves, scrapie tagged sheep, tattooed animals, assisted in DNA extraction for the New Mexico State Fair and national shows. Home visits are a great way for the agent to interact with members and parents on a one on one basis in a setting they felt comfortable in and able to ask many questions relating to the junior livestock program. Many times a livestock pen turns into an outdoor classroom and skills are animal husbandry skills are learned by 4-H members.
San Juan County 4-H Council
The Agent works with the youth council especially the Treasurer with quarterly financial reports as well as an annual report and breakdown to the Board of Trustees. The Council meets four times a year to discuss county 4-H business and make decisions for the county program. The agent works with the youth leaders to develop an agenda and execute the meetings. An Annual Awards Banquet is held in November to recognize members and leaders for their hard work throughout the year. The youth plan and execute the banquet and are responsible for all aspects of the annual banquet. The agent acts as a resource for the council officers and works with other agents in the office to coordinate activities throughout the year. The Council sponsors the County Carnival. This event brings all the clubs together for fun, recreation, and fundraising. This year over 300 member, parents, leaders, and friends enjoyed an evening of 4-H fun. The agent assisted in organizing this event with the county council officers.
4-H Horse Program
San Juan County 4-H has an active horse program. The special interest club is called the Hoofbeat Gang. This club holds monthly meeting and semi-monthly clinics. Hoofbeat has thirty members. They elect officers and make club decisions at monthly meetings. The agent is responsible for finding adult leadership and for the past year three years; two volunteer leaders came forward to assume and share the duties of the club. The club raises money to assist member to attend State Horse School and to assist the members in their horsemanship abilities through fun shows and clinics. Two members participated in District and State 4-H Horse Show. six members participated in NMSF Horse Show. The club ends it year with a banquet and members are rewarded and recognized for their efforts. The agent works closely with the leaders to plan for facilities, events, and county fair youth horse show. This year our county hosted the Northwest District Horse Show. Thirty-four 4-H members participated including seven from San Juan County. The agent assisted in all aspects of the show and assisted volunteer leaders and other 4-H agents where needed. Members from around the district were appreciative and learned many valuable skills including horsemanship, sportsmanship, responsibility and dedication to name a few. This activity was beneficial to the youth of the district.
4-H Rodeo
San Juan County 4-H has an active rodeo club with fifty six members that hold six monthly rodeos and two rodeos at the San Juan County Fair.. These rodeos make up a series that include end of the year awards. This is a saddle series, but many prizes are given including belt buckles, blankets, equipment, and jackets to name a few. Every member receives some sort of award and recognition at the end of the year for their hard work and dedication. The Agent worked with the officials and officers to ensure a quality rodeo for all the participants. Through this program members learn many life skills that include responsibility, safety, sportsmanship, and horsemanship. Through this club both adult and youth are elected to serve as officers and board members and decisions are made at monthly club meetings. Through the dedication of these individuals, a high quality program is delivered to many youth participants throughout the state. The agent works very closely with the leaders of the club to insure all rules are being followed and to assist in the preparations of the rodeos. The agent is also a liaison between the 4-H rodeo club and the fair board. The agent is called upon frequently to assist with situations which arise within the club. At the end of the year the club holds a banquet and members are rewarded for their efforts throughout the year. Rodeo safety is an important aspect of the sport. Every member is required to attend a safety class given by a certified county EMT. Proper paper work is required including a rodeo waiver and insurance information. The Agent is responsible for all correspondence between the insurance company and the rodeo members. Providing the safest environment is always in mind for the 4-H members participating.
4-H Shooting Sports
San Juan County has an active shooting sports program. Disciplines include shotgun, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, air rifle, compound archery and recurve archery. Our shooting sports program begins in late September with an organizational meeting presented by the agent and volunteer leaders. The agent is responsible for finding leaders in each discipline and working with the San Juan Wildlife Federation Range to schedule practices at the only range in the county. Every member is required to receive safety training and the agent always recruits leaders that emphasize safety above everything else. Bi-weekly practices are held in the fall and weekly practices are held in each discipline in the spring. 27 members participated in practices throughout the year and members participated in county contests as well as district for the novice and junior members and state for the senior members. 4-H members from San Juan County are always prepared for district and state competitions and display safety at all the events. The agent also served as the match director for the State Archery contest. Responsibilities included setting up the FIDA and 3-D courses to specifications and running the contest. Over 50 members state-wide participated in this weekend event held at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton. NM.
State and National Events
This year 13 members and two volunteer leaders participated in Senior Leadership Retreat in Albuquerque. Members learned many valuable leadership skills that they brought back to the county program. The also got a chance to meet and socialize with other 4-H members throughout the state. Ten members and a leader participated in Youth Get-Away at Camp Inlow this year. All the members had a great time and learned communication and team building skills. The also got a chance to get to know other members throughout the state. The Agent held a mandatory orientation meeting with the youth to complete all the necessary paperwork in advance. 16 members got a chance to participate in State 4-H Conference. These members judged at the state level and were part of the State 4-H Council and electing a new leadership team. The agent directly trained the livestock, livestock skillathon, and meats team. The Livestock team won second and the skillathon team and Meats ID team both won the state contest and will participate in the national 4-H meats contest in Kansas City. The county had high point individual in both skillathon and meats and the meats team had all three of its members in the top four of the contest! This was a great accomplishment by our youth. This past year the agent trained and chaperoned both the Livestock Skillathon and Livestock team for the National 4-H contest in Louisville, KY. Many hours were spent working with these youth to prepare them for the contests. The skillathon team placed 6th in the nation and although we did not place in the Livestock contest, we had many individual accomplishments and place 5th overall in the swine division. The agent will train and take responsibility for the National trip this fall to Kansas City. The agent also works with local FFA chapters and trains youth involved in 4-H as well as FFA. This past year youth trained by the agent won 2nd place in both meats and livestock at the State FFA Contest and the agent will continue to train these youth for contests in Kansas City and Denver. The agent has a good working relationship with all the FFA chapters in the county. Sixty-eight members participated in a county contests. The agent was responsible for organizing the contests, setting up contests, grading contests, and recruiting leaders to assist. The County Council officers awarded the winners with ribbons and certificates. Forty-one members from San Juan County participated in the NE/NW 4-H District contest in Estancia, NM. The agent trained teams and was responsible for the horticulture contest and livestock contest serving as co-superintendent. The members from our county did very well in all aspects of the competition and represented the program well. San Juan County 4-H members were well represented and won many awards during the two day event. This year the agent organized a livestock judging contest at the county fair for the first time ever. With over twenty-two youth practicing livestock judging in the county, the agent wanted to give these youth an opportunity to judge one more time this year. The agent coordinated this through the fair board and got buckle sponsors for all three divisions. The agent coordinated reason takers, classes, and tabulators to help facilitate this contest. Thirty-one youth participated and turned out to be a great success.
4-H Ski School
The agent schedules and plans for two 4-H ski schools at Durango Mountain Resort at Purgatory in conjunction with the other 4-h Agent in the county. This event is a day of fun for the members and La Plata County 4-H in Colorado is also invited. The youth receive a ½ day lesson and ½ day of skiing/snowboarding. Members get a chance to enjoy one another without competition and build many 4-H friendships. This year 83 members and 35 volunteers participated in the event. This fun event is the highlight of many 4-H members year.
Expanded 4-H
The agent is responsible for delivering the Master Seed Program to the 4th graders of San Juan County in cooperation with Master Gardner graduates. This is a program that teaches the basics of plant growth including soil, seeds, photosynthesis, plant nutrient needs, and insects. Every student has the opportunity to plant a seed in soil and watch it form and grow. The agent along with master gardeners, present this information directly to the students throughout the county. This year 1064 student’s received instruction in the master seed program and was once again a huge success with the students and teachers.
The agent spends time working with local FFA chapters with career development events and training youth in livestock judging, parliamentary procedure, wool, meats, and poultry. Over thirty youth were directly taught and assisted in decision making skill events.
Situation
San Juan County has 611 traditional 4-H members including 47 Cloverbud members. Of the 611 traditional members, 183 were 1st year members, 213 were 2-3 year members, and 215 were members for over 4 years. The county has Thirty-three community clubs for members to join and be a part of. The number of clubs has reduced because of a new bylaw that requires a minimum number of members per club. 98% of the members developed skills relating to the projects they were enrolled in as is evident through their project completion which includes, but not limited to, livestock shows, pet shows, rodeos, horse shows, indoor project competition and record book completion. 75% of the members displayed leadership traits through local club work by serving as officers, committee members, pledge leaders, etc. Members also demonstrated leadership qualities by serving as County Council Officers and participating in various 4-H activities such as county contests, council meetings state and national events.
The Agent was mainly responsible for the agricultural and natural resource side of the 4-H program as well as assisting with County Council events for the 2009-10 program year. Programs this year include:
Youth Development
Junior Livestock Program
The Agent spent a substantial amount of time in assisting members, parents and volunteer leaders in the Junior Livestock Program. This program is designed to directly impact youth and increase their life skills. Members complete their projects at the San Juan County Fair, New Mexico State Fair, Arizona National Livestock Show, and National Western Livestock Show in Denver. In 2010 the San Juan County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised over $348,000 in sale receipts and “add-on’s” to 4-H members that made the sale as well as members that had non sale animals. This past year in the county we had 48 market steers, 156 market sheep, 278 market swine, 63 market goats, 42 breeding animals (including beef, sheep, and goats), 38 show horses, 147 poultry entries, and 98 rabbit entries. These numbers represent a significant decrease from last year due to the area‘s economy and the ever increasing costs of the program.
Many programs within the Junior Livestock program were developed and delivered to assist members and help make their experience in the program a positive learning one. Programs include:
• Market Steer Selection & Feeding Workshop- The agent collaborated with a local feed dealer to deliver a program in to members, leaders and parents about selection, feeding, facilities and care of a market steer/breeding heifer. Handouts were provided to families to assist throughout the year. Many examples were given to both positive attributes and negative attributes on many market steers to improve the member’s chances of having a good experience. This program concluded with many question and answers. The agent offered his services to help members select animals at sales and farms and this offer was taken up by many of the members. The agent educated members and leaders on all aspects of raising beef for show and gave members valuable information to assist them in the learning process of raising show cattle. Through this education, members developed skills in all aspects of raising and showing beef animals as well as life skills which include sportsmanship, responsibility, and dedication. Twelve members and parents attended the workshop.
• Semi-Monthly Steer Weigh Days- The agent held semi-monthly steer weigh days to assist members with their market steer projects. Weights were recorded to show the amount of growth in a month and to assist members on feeding programs. The animals were evaluated by the agent and suggestions were given to help make the project a success. Six weigh days were held from January through June at the County Fairgrounds on the certified scale that is used during the fair. All members in the beef project attended at least one weigh day throughout the year.
• Steer Jackpots- Members from the county attended jackpots in Portales, Las Cruces, and Farmington. The agent assisted members in preparation of their steers before leaving to attend the jackpots in Portales, Farmington, and Las Cruces. Grooming and showing techniques were taught to members and parents to increase knowledge and success in the show ring. The agent was directly responsible for preparing and putting on the “Sno-Ball Classic” Jackpot in Farmington. The agent was responsible for securing judges, facilities, prizes, money, and worked with Las Cruces FFA to begin a “North/South Cattle Battle”. The agent collaborated with the local Agriculture Teacher as well as with the Las Cruces Agriculture teacher in organizing the “cattle battle” and securing prizes as well as calculating points, and presenting the awards at the NMSF. The agent developed advertising to promote the jackpot and recruited members to participate to develop skills necessary to be successful at showing and raising cattle. Although this jackpot is co-sponsored with the Aztec FFA Alumni, this year all of the responsibilities fell upon the agent. This year we had 24 calves showed up from Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico, several more local 4-H Members came to watch and learn. The jackpot was a great experience and gave members an opportunity to exhibit their 4-H project and “Learn by Doing”.
• Market Swine Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leaders, and parents on market swine selection, care, and feeding. A PowerPoint presentation was given to stress the importance of proper selection techniques in selecting market show swine as well as many feeding options. Issues relating to muscle, leanness, and structure were discussed. The agent covered proper facilities and show time preparation. Members left with a feeling of excitement as they participated in the seminar and expressed their gratitude for the information and was followed up with many calls about raising show swine. The agent also had a section dedicated to show ring ethics. Although only 8 members and parents participated, those that did expressed gratitude toward the agent for the knowledge and handouts to make a successful experience.
• Market Lamb Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leader, and parents over show lamb selection, nutrition, facilities, health, and ethics. A PowerPoint presentation as prepared by the agent to show actual lambs and to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many questions were answered and anxiety levels lowered as a result of this workshop. Although participation was low in the workshop the nine members and parents that participated in this event expressed their gratefulness and went on to select lambs that excelled at the county fair as well as the Shiprock Fair.
• Pig & Lamb Jackpot- This year the agent was directly responsible for all aspects of the “Four Corners Pig & Lamb Expo”. The Agent recruited volunteers to assist with the jackpot with check-in, announcing, ring help, and computer work. The agent held several planning meetings to discuss judges, prizes, concessions, and general preparation for the jackpot. Many hours were dedicated to making this jackpot a positive experience for 4-H youth and make this a learning situation for youth in the junior livestock program. 124 swine and 42 lambs were exhibited. 4-H members throughout the state as well as Colorado and Arizona gained experience in their 4-H projects through this experience. Members had a chance to prepare for the county fair by getting out in the show ring and practicing the skills that they learned at the agent’s workshop. This is a great reinforcement tool and members learned valuable skills relating to showmanship and their animals.
• San Juan County Fair- The San Juan County Fair is the largest county Fair in New Mexico. The Fair runs eight days and members exhibit their animals as well as indoor entries for the entire length of the fair. Over 300 members exhibit 4-H animal projects. 135 entries qualify for the Junior Livestock sale that brought in over $248,000 dollars and another $100,000 dollars were brought in for add-on’s for both sale and non-sale exhibitors. This money went directly to the youth for their hard work and efforts. The agent assisted many members while at the show and assisted with shows and performed many odd jobs during the week. Our county fair provides a great economic value as well as a positive learning experience for the youth of San Juan County. Many of the members that do not make the premium sale receive a large sum of money for their animals from local business to assist in making the 4-H animal project a positive experience. 456 indoor 4-H projects were exhibited by members at the county fair. This indicates members are completing their projects and learning life skills.
• New Mexico State Fair- The agent spent eight days assisting members at the State Fair. The Agent also assisted with the calf scramble show and designed and assisted with the county booth. San Juan County had thirty –three members show animals at the state fair that included swine, beef, sheep, goats, dogs and horses. Six members made the premium sale and sold their animals for a fair profit. San Juan County 4-H member also had the Reserve Grand Champion Steer. San Juan Co. entered 96 exhibits from 44 4-H members in the indoor 4-H projects. Members placed well and had a chance to exhibit their projects for many visitors to enjoy! The New Mexico State Fair is a great learning experience for the members to exhibit their projects that they have worked on for the entire year.
• Home Visits- The agent made countless home visits throughout the year to assist members with their projects. While on home visits the agent evaluated the member’s animals as well as trimmed cattle hooves, scrapie tagged sheep, tattooed animals, assisted in DNA extraction for the New Mexico State Fair and national shows. Home visits are a great way for the agent to interact with members and parents on a one on one basis in a setting they felt comfortable in and able to ask many questions relating to the junior livestock program. Many times a livestock pen turns into an outdoor classroom and skills are animal husbandry skills are learned by 4-H members.
San Juan County 4-H Council
The Agent works with the youth council especially the Treasurer with quarterly financial reports as well as an annual report and breakdown to the Board of Trustees. The Council meets four times a year to discuss county 4-H business and make decisions for the county program. The agent works with the youth leaders to develop an agenda and execute the meetings. An Annual Awards Banquet is held in November to recognize members and Leaders for their hard work throughout the year. The youth plan and execute the banquet and are responsible for all aspects of the annual banquet. The agent acts as a resource for the council officers and works with other agents in the office to coordinate activities throughout the year. The Council sponsors the County Carnival. This event brings all the clubs together for fun, recreation, and fundraising. This year over 300 member, parents, leaders, and friends enjoyed an evening of 4-H fun. The agent assisted in organizing this event with the county council officers.
4-H Horse Program
San Juan County 4-H has an active horse program. The special interest club is called the Hoofbeat Gang. This club holds monthly meeting and semi-monthly clinics. Hoofbeat has thirty members. They elect officers and make club decisions at monthly meetings. The agent is responsible for finding adult leadership and for the past year three years; two volunteer leaders came forward to assume and share the duties of the club. The club raises money to assist member to attend State Horse School and to assist the members in their horsemanship abilities through fun shows and clinics. Two members participated in District and State 4-H Horse Show. Two members participated in NMSF Horse Show. The club ends it year with a banquet and members are rewarded and recognized for their efforts. The agent works closely with the leaders to plan for facilities, events, and county fair youth horse show. This year our county hosted the Northwest District Horse Show. Thirty-four 4-H members participated including seven from San Juan County. The agent assisted in all aspects of the show and assisted volunteer leaders and other 4-H agents where needed. Members from around the district were appreciative and learned many valuable skills including horsemanship, sportsmanship, responsibility and dedication to name a few. This activity was beneficial to the youth of the district.
4-H Rodeo
San Juan County 4-H has an active rodeo club with sixty-seven members that hold six monthly rodeos a rodeo at the San Juan County Fair, and a double state sanctioned rodeo. These rodeos make up a series that include end of the year awards. This is a saddle series, but many prizes are given including belt buckles, blankets, equipment, and jackets to name a few. Every member receives some sort of award and recognition at the end of the year for their hard work and dedication. The Agent worked with the officials and officers to ensure a quality rodeo for all the participants. Through this program members learn many life skills that include responsibility, safety, sportsmanship, and horsemanship. Through this club both adult and youth are elected to serve as officers and board members and decisions are made at monthly club meetings. Through the dedication of these individuals, a high quality program is delivered to many youth participants throughout the state. The agent works very closely with the leaders of the club to insure all rules are being followed and to assist in the preparations of the rodeos. The agent is also a liaison between the 4-H rodeo club and the fair board. The agent is called upon frequently to assist with situations which arise within the club. At the end of the year the club holds a banquet and members are rewarded for their efforts throughout the year. Rodeo safety is an important aspect of the sport. Every member is required to attend a safety class given by a certified county EMT. Proper paper work is required including a rodeo waiver and insurance information. The Agent is responsible for all correspondence between the insurance company and the rodeo members. Providing the safest environment is always in mind for the 4-H members participating.
4-H Shooting Sports
San Juan County has an active shooting sports program. Disciplines include shotgun, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, air rifle, compound archery and recurve archery. Our shooting sports program begins in late September with an organizational meeting presented by the agent and volunteer leaders. The agent is responsible for finding leaders in each discipline and working with the San Juan Wildlife Federation Range to schedule practices at the only range in the county. Every member is required to receive safety training and the agent always recruits leaders that emphasize safety above everything else. Bi-weekly practices are held in the fall and weekly practices are held in each discipline in the spring. 36 members participated in practices throughout the year and members participated in county contests as well as district for the novice and junior members and state for the senior members. 4-H members from San Juan County are always prepared for district and state competitions and display safety at all the events. The agent also served as the match director for the State Archery contest. Responsibilities included setting up the FIDA and 3-D courses to specifications and running the contest. Over 50 members state-wide participated in this weekend event held at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton. NM.
State and National Events
This year 11 members and two volunteer leaders participated in Senior Leadership Retreat in Albuquerque. Members learned many valuable leadership skills that they brought back to the county program. The also got a chance to meet and socialize with other 4-H members throughout the state. Thirteen members and a leader participated in Youth Get-Away at Camp Inlow this year. All the members had a great time and learned communication and team building skills. The also got a chance to get to know other members throughout the state. The Agent held a mandatory orientation meeting with the youth to complete all the necessary paperwork in advance. Nine members got a chance to participate in State 4-H Conference. These members judged at the state level and were part of the State 4-H Council and electing a new leadership team. The agent directly trained the livestock, livestock skillathon, and meats team. All three of the teams won their State Contest and a member’s from our county was the high individual in each of these contests. This was a great accomplishment by our youth and all three of the teams are eligible to participate in the national contests in Kansas City, MO and Louisville, KY this fall. The agent is busy with preparing these teams for the national contests and assisting with fundraising and filling out all required forms. Forty-three members participated in a county contests. The agent was responsible for organizing the contests, setting up contests, grading contests, and recruiting leaders to assist. The County Council officers awarded the winners with ribbons and certificates. Twenty-one members from San Juan County participated in the NE/NW 4-H District contest in Albuquerque, NM. The agent trained teams and was responsible for the horticulture contest and livestock contest serving as co-superintendent. San Juan County 4-H members were well represented and won many awards during the two day event.
4-H Ski School
The agent schedules and plans for two 4-H ski schools at Durango Mountain Resort at Purgatory. This event is a day of fun for the members and La Plata County 4-H in Colorado is also invited. The youth receive a ½ day lesson and ½ day of skiing/snowboarding. Members get a chance to enjoy one another without competition and build many 4-H friendships. This year 75 members and 39 volunteers participated in the event. This fun event is the highlight of many 4-H members year.
Expanded 4-H
The agent is responsible for delivering the Master Seed Program to the 4th graders of San Juan County in cooperation with Master Gardner graduates. This is a program that teaches the basics of plant growth including soil, seeds, photosynthesis, plant nutrient needs, and insects. Every student has the opportunity to plant a seed in soil and watch it form and grow. The agent along with master gardeners, present this information directly to the students throughout the county. This year 1064 student’s received instruction in the master seed program and was once again a huge success with the students and teachers.
The agent spends time working with local FFA chapters with career development events and training youth in livestock judging, parliamentary procedure, wool, meats, and poultry. Over thirty youth were directly taught and assisted in decision making skill events.
San Juan County has 611 traditional 4-H members including 47 Cloverbud members. Of the 611 traditional members, 183 were 1st year members, 213 were 2-3 year members, and 215 were members for over 4 years. The county has Thirty-three community clubs for members to join and be a part of. The number of clubs has reduced because of a new bylaw that requires a minimum number of members per club. 98% of the members developed skills relating to the projects they were enrolled in as is evident through their project completion which includes, but not limited to, livestock shows, pet shows, rodeos, horse shows, indoor project competition and record book completion. 75% of the members displayed leadership traits through local club work by serving as officers, committee members, pledge leaders, etc. Members also demonstrated leadership qualities by serving as County Council Officers and participating in various 4-H activities such as county contests, council meetings state and national events.
The Agent was mainly responsible for the agricultural and natural resource side of the 4-H program as well as assisting with County Council events for the 2009-10 program year. Programs this year include:
Youth Development
Junior Livestock Program
The Agent spent a substantial amount of time in assisting members, parents and volunteer leaders in the Junior Livestock Program. This program is designed to directly impact youth and increase their life skills. Members complete their projects at the San Juan County Fair, New Mexico State Fair, Arizona National Livestock Show, and National Western Livestock Show in Denver. In 2010 the San Juan County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised over $348,000 in sale receipts and “add-on’s” to 4-H members that made the sale as well as members that had non sale animals. This past year in the county we had 48 market steers, 156 market sheep, 278 market swine, 63 market goats, 42 breeding animals (including beef, sheep, and goats), 38 show horses, 147 poultry entries, and 98 rabbit entries. These numbers represent a significant decrease from last year due to the area‘s economy and the ever increasing costs of the program.
Many programs within the Junior Livestock program were developed and delivered to assist members and help make their experience in the program a positive learning one. Programs include:
• Market Steer Selection & Feeding Workshop- The agent collaborated with a local feed dealer to deliver a program in to members, leaders and parents about selection, feeding, facilities and care of a market steer/breeding heifer. Handouts were provided to families to assist throughout the year. Many examples were given to both positive attributes and negative attributes on many market steers to improve the member’s chances of having a good experience. This program concluded with many question and answers. The agent offered his services to help members select animals at sales and farms and this offer was taken up by many of the members. The agent educated members and leaders on all aspects of raising beef for show and gave members valuable information to assist them in the learning process of raising show cattle. Through this education, members developed skills in all aspects of raising and showing beef animals as well as life skills which include sportsmanship, responsibility, and dedication. Twelve members and parents attended the workshop.
• Semi-Monthly Steer Weigh Days- The agent held semi-monthly steer weigh days to assist members with their market steer projects. Weights were recorded to show the amount of growth in a month and to assist members on feeding programs. The animals were evaluated by the agent and suggestions were given to help make the project a success. Six weigh days were held from January through June at the County Fairgrounds on the certified scale that is used during the fair. All members in the beef project attended at least one weigh day throughout the year.
• Steer Jackpots- Members from the county attended jackpots in Portales, Las Cruces, and Farmington. The agent assisted members in preparation of their steers before leaving to attend the jackpots in Portales, Farmington, and Las Cruces. Grooming and showing techniques were taught to members and parents to increase knowledge and success in the show ring. The agent was directly responsible for preparing and putting on the “Sno-Ball Classic” Jackpot in Farmington. The agent was responsible for securing judges, facilities, prizes, money, and worked with Las Cruces FFA to begin a “North/South Cattle Battle”. The agent collaborated with the local Agriculture Teacher as well as with the Las Cruces Agriculture teacher in organizing the “cattle battle” and securing prizes as well as calculating points, and presenting the awards at the NMSF. The agent developed advertising to promote the jackpot and recruited members to participate to develop skills necessary to be successful at showing and raising cattle. Although this jackpot is co-sponsored with the Aztec FFA Alumni, this year all of the responsibilities fell upon the agent. This year we had 24 calves showed up from Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico, several more local 4-H Members came to watch and learn. The jackpot was a great experience and gave members an opportunity to exhibit their 4-H project and “Learn by Doing”.
• Market Swine Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leaders, and parents on market swine selection, care, and feeding. A PowerPoint presentation was given to stress the importance of proper selection techniques in selecting market show swine as well as many feeding options. Issues relating to muscle, leanness, and structure were discussed. The agent covered proper facilities and show time preparation. Members left with a feeling of excitement as they participated in the seminar and expressed their gratitude for the information and was followed up with many calls about raising show swine. The agent also had a section dedicated to show ring ethics. Although only 8 members and parents participated, those that did expressed gratitude toward the agent for the knowledge and handouts to make a successful experience.
• Market Lamb Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leader, and parents over show lamb selection, nutrition, facilities, health, and ethics. A PowerPoint presentation as prepared by the agent to show actual lambs and to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many questions were answered and anxiety levels lowered as a result of this workshop. Although participation was low in the workshop the nine members and parents that participated in this event expressed their gratefulness and went on to select lambs that excelled at the county fair as well as the Shiprock Fair.
• Pig & Lamb Jackpot- This year the agent was directly responsible for all aspects of the “Four Corners Pig & Lamb Expo”. The Agent recruited volunteers to assist with the jackpot with check-in, announcing, ring help, and computer work. The agent held several planning meetings to discuss judges, prizes, concessions, and general preparation for the jackpot. Many hours were dedicated to making this jackpot a positive experience for 4-H youth and make this a learning situation for youth in the junior livestock program. 124 swine and 42 lambs were exhibited. 4-H members throughout the state as well as Colorado and Arizona gained experience in their 4-H projects through this experience. Members had a chance to prepare for the county fair by getting out in the show ring and practicing the skills that they learned at the agent’s workshop. This is a great reinforcement tool and members learned valuable skills relating to showmanship and their animals.
• San Juan County Fair- The San Juan County Fair is the largest county Fair in New Mexico. The Fair runs eight days and members exhibit their animals as well as indoor entries for the entire length of the fair. Over 300 members exhibit 4-H animal projects. 135 entries qualify for the Junior Livestock sale that brought in over $248,000 dollars and another $100,000 dollars were brought in for add-on’s for both sale and non-sale exhibitors. This money went directly to the youth for their hard work and efforts. The agent assisted many members while at the show and assisted with shows and performed many odd jobs during the week. Our county fair provides a great economic value as well as a positive learning experience for the youth of San Juan County. Many of the members that do not make the premium sale receive a large sum of money for their animals from local business to assist in making the 4-H animal project a positive experience. 456 indoor 4-H projects were exhibited by members at the county fair. This indicates members are completing their projects and learning life skills.
• New Mexico State Fair- The agent spent eight days assisting members at the State Fair. The Agent also assisted with the calf scramble show and designed and assisted with the county booth. San Juan County had thirty –three members show animals at the state fair that included swine, beef, sheep, goats, dogs and horses. Six members made the premium sale and sold their animals for a fair profit. San Juan County 4-H member also had the Reserve Grand Champion Steer. San Juan Co. entered 96 exhibits from 44 4-H members in the indoor 4-H projects. Members placed well and had a chance to exhibit their projects for many visitors to enjoy! The New Mexico State Fair is a great learning experience for the members to exhibit their projects that they have worked on for the entire year.
• Home Visits- The agent made countless home visits throughout the year to assist members with their projects. While on home visits the agent evaluated the member’s animals as well as trimmed cattle hooves, scrapie tagged sheep, tattooed animals, assisted in DNA extraction for the New Mexico State Fair and national shows. Home visits are a great way for the agent to interact with members and parents on a one on one basis in a setting they felt comfortable in and able to ask many questions relating to the junior livestock program. Many times a livestock pen turns into an outdoor classroom and skills are animal husbandry skills are learned by 4-H members.
San Juan County 4-H Council
The Agent works with the youth council especially the Treasurer with quarterly financial reports as well as an annual report and breakdown to the Board of Trustees. The Council meets four times a year to discuss county 4-H business and make decisions for the county program. The agent works with the youth leaders to develop an agenda and execute the meetings. An Annual Awards Banquet is held in November to recognize members and Leaders for their hard work throughout the year. The youth plan and execute the banquet and are responsible for all aspects of the annual banquet. The agent acts as a resource for the council officers and works with other agents in the office to coordinate activities throughout the year. The Council sponsors the County Carnival. This event brings all the clubs together for fun, recreation, and fundraising. This year over 300 member, parents, leaders, and friends enjoyed an evening of 4-H fun. The agent assisted in organizing this event with the county council officers.
4-H Horse Program
San Juan County 4-H has an active horse program. The special interest club is called the Hoofbeat Gang. This club holds monthly meeting and semi-monthly clinics. Hoofbeat has thirty members. They elect officers and make club decisions at monthly meetings. The agent is responsible for finding adult leadership and for the past year three years; two volunteer leaders came forward to assume and share the duties of the club. The club raises money to assist member to attend State Horse School and to assist the members in their horsemanship abilities through fun shows and clinics. Two members participated in District and State 4-H Horse Show. Two members participated in NMSF Horse Show. The club ends it year with a banquet and members are rewarded and recognized for their efforts. The agent works closely with the leaders to plan for facilities, events, and county fair youth horse show. This year our county hosted the Northwest District Horse Show. Thirty-four 4-H members participated including seven from San Juan County. The agent assisted in all aspects of the show and assisted volunteer leaders and other 4-H agents where needed. Members from around the district were appreciative and learned many valuable skills including horsemanship, sportsmanship, responsibility and dedication to name a few. This activity was beneficial to the youth of the district.
4-H Rodeo
San Juan County 4-H has an active rodeo club with sixty-seven members that hold six monthly rodeos a rodeo at the San Juan County Fair, and a double state sanctioned rodeo. These rodeos make up a series that include end of the year awards. This is a saddle series, but many prizes are given including belt buckles, blankets, equipment, and jackets to name a few. Every member receives some sort of award and recognition at the end of the year for their hard work and dedication. The Agent worked with the officials and officers to ensure a quality rodeo for all the participants. Through this program members learn many life skills that include responsibility, safety, sportsmanship, and horsemanship. Through this club both adult and youth are elected to serve as officers and board members and decisions are made at monthly club meetings. Through the dedication of these individuals, a high quality program is delivered to many youth participants throughout the state. The agent works very closely with the leaders of the club to insure all rules are being followed and to assist in the preparations of the rodeos. The agent is also a liaison between the 4-H rodeo club and the fair board. The agent is called upon frequently to assist with situations which arise within the club. At the end of the year the club holds a banquet and members are rewarded for their efforts throughout the year. Rodeo safety is an important aspect of the sport. Every member is required to attend a safety class given by a certified county EMT. Proper paper work is required including a rodeo waiver and insurance information. The Agent is responsible for all correspondence between the insurance company and the rodeo members. Providing the safest environment is always in mind for the 4-H members participating.
4-H Shooting Sports
San Juan County has an active shooting sports program. Disciplines include shotgun, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, air rifle, compound archery and recurve archery. Our shooting sports program begins in late September with an organizational meeting presented by the agent and volunteer leaders. The agent is responsible for finding leaders in each discipline and working with the San Juan Wildlife Federation Range to schedule practices at the only range in the county. Every member is required to receive safety training and the agent always recruits leaders that emphasize safety above everything else. Bi-weekly practices are held in the fall and weekly practices are held in each discipline in the spring. 36 members participated in practices throughout the year and members participated in county contests as well as district for the novice and junior members and state for the senior members. 4-H members from San Juan County are always prepared for district and state competitions and display safety at all the events. The agent also served as the match director for the State Archery contest. Responsibilities included setting up the FIDA and 3-D courses to specifications and running the contest. Over 50 members state-wide participated in this weekend event held at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton. NM.
State and National Events
This year 11 members and two volunteer leaders participated in Senior Leadership Retreat in Albuquerque. Members learned many valuable leadership skills that they brought back to the county program. The also got a chance to meet and socialize with other 4-H members throughout the state. Thirteen members and a leader participated in Youth Get-Away at Camp Inlow this year. All the members had a great time and learned communication and team building skills. The also got a chance to get to know other members throughout the state. The Agent held a mandatory orientation meeting with the youth to complete all the necessary paperwork in advance. Nine members got a chance to participate in State 4-H Conference. These members judged at the state level and were part of the State 4-H Council and electing a new leadership team. The agent directly trained the livestock, livestock skillathon, and meats team. All three of the teams won their State Contest and a member’s from our county was the high individual in each of these contests. This was a great accomplishment by our youth and all three of the teams are eligible to participate in the national contests in Kansas City, MO and Louisville, KY this fall. The agent is busy with preparing these teams for the national contests and assisting with fundraising and filling out all required forms. Forty-three members participated in a county contests. The agent was responsible for organizing the contests, setting up contests, grading contests, and recruiting leaders to assist. The County Council officers awarded the winners with ribbons and certificates. Twenty-one members from San Juan County participated in the NE/NW 4-H District contest in Albuquerque, NM. The agent trained teams and was responsible for the horticulture contest and livestock contest serving as co-superintendent. San Juan County 4-H members were well represented and won many awards during the two day event.
4-H Ski School
The agent schedules and plans for two 4-H ski schools at Durango Mountain Resort at Purgatory. This event is a day of fun for the members and La Plata County 4-H in Colorado is also invited. The youth receive a ½ day lesson and ½ day of skiing/snowboarding. Members get a chance to enjoy one another without competition and build many 4-H friendships. This year 75 members and 39 volunteers participated in the event. This fun event is the highlight of many 4-H members year.
Expanded 4-H
The agent is responsible for delivering the Master Seed Program to the 4th graders of San Juan County in cooperation with Master Gardner graduates. This is a program that teaches the basics of plant growth including soil, seeds, photosynthesis, plant nutrient needs, and insects. Every student has the opportunity to plant a seed in soil and watch it form and grow. The agent along with master gardeners, present this information directly to the students throughout the county. This year 1064 student’s received instruction in the master seed program and was once again a huge success with the students and teachers.
The agent spends time working with local FFA chapters with career development events and training youth in livestock judging, parliamentary procedure, wool, meats, and poultry. Over thirty youth were directly taught and assisted in decision making skill events.
Situation
San Juan County has 613 traditional 4-H members and 38 Cloverbud members for a total of 651 enrolled in community clubs. Of the 613 traditional members, 236 were 1st year members, 175 were 2-3 year members, and 202 were members for over 4 years. These number represents a 15% overall increase over last year. The county has forty-two community clubs for members to join and be a part of. 98% of the members developed skills relating to the projects they were enrolled in as is evident through their project completion which includes, but not limited to, livestock shows, pet shows, rodeos, horse shows, indoor project competition and record book completion. 75% of the members displayed leadership traits through local club work by serving as officers, committee members, pledge leaders, etc. Members also demonstrated leadership qualities by serving as County Council Officers and participating in various 4-H activities such as county contests, council meetings state and national events.
The Agent was mainly responsible for the agricultural and natural resource side of the 4-H program as well as assisting with County Council events for the 2008-09 program year. Programs this year include:
Youth Development
Junior Livestock Program
The Agent spent a substantial amount of time in assisting members, parents and volunteer leaders in the Junior Livestock Program. This program is designed to directly impact youth and increase their life skills. Members complete their projects at the San Juan County Fair, New Mexico State Fair, Arizona National Livestock Show, and National Western Livestock Show in Denver. In 2009 the San Juan County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised over $406,000 in sale receipts and “add-on’s” to 4-H members that made the sale as well as members that had non sale animals. This past year in the county we had 72 market steers, 185 market sheep, 203 market swine, 79 market goats, 82 breeding animals (including beef, sheep, and goats), 40 show horses, 151 poultry entries, and 117 rabbit entries.
Many programs within the Junior Livestock program were developed and delivered to assist members and help make their experience in the program a positive learning one. Programs include:
• Market Steer Selection & Feeding Workshop- The agent presented a program in October to members, leaders and parents about selection, feeding, facilities and care of a market steer/breeding heifer. A PowerPoint presentation was given to assist members before they purchased their animals. Handouts were provided to families to assist throughout the year. Many examples were given to both positive attributes and negative attributes on many market steers to improve the member’s chances of having a good experience. This program concluded with many question and answers. The agent offered his services to help members select animals at sales and farms and this offer was taken up by many of the members. The agent educated members and leaders on all aspects of raising beef for show and gave members valuable information to assist them in the learning process of raising show cattle. Through this education, members developed skills in all aspects of raising and showing beef animals as well as life skills which include sportsmanship, responsibility, and dedication. Fifteen members and parents attended the workshop.
• Monthly Steer Weigh Days- The agent held monthly steer weigh days to assist members with their market steer projects. Weights were recorded to show the amount of growth in a month and to assist members on feeding programs. The animals were evaluated by the agent and suggestions were given to help make the project a success. Six weigh days were held from January through June at the County Fairgrounds on the certified scale that is used during the fair. All members in the beef project attended at least one weigh day throughout the year.
• Steer Jackpots- Members from the county attended jackpots in Portales, Las Cruces, and Farmington. The agent assisted members in preparation of their steers before leaving to attend the jackpots in Portales, Farmington, and Las Cruces. Grooming and showing techniques were taught to members and parents to increase knowledge and success in the show ring. The agent was directly responsible for preparing and putting on the “Sno-Ball Classic” Jackpot in Farmington. The agent secured judges, facilities, prizes, money, and state contract with the NMCCA to sanction this jackpot. The agent developed advertising to promote the jackpot and recruited members to participate to develop skills necessary to be successful at showing and raising cattle. Although this jackpot is co-sponsored with the Aztec FFA Alumni, this year much of the responsibilities fell upon the agent. This year we had 55 calves showed up from Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico, several more local 4-H Members came to watch and learn. The jackpot was a great experience and gave members an opportunity to exhibit their 4-H project and “Learn by Doing”.
• Market Swine Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leaders, and parents on market swine selection, care, and feeding. A PowerPoint presentation was given to stress the importance of proper selection techniques in selecting market show swine as well as many feeding options. Issues relating to muscle, leanness, and structure were discussed. The agent covered proper facilities and show time preparation. Members left with a feeling of excitement as they participated in the seminar and expressed their gratitude for the information and was followed up with many calls about raising show swine. The agent also had a section dedicated to show ring ethics. Although only 12 members and parents participated, those that did expressed gratitude toward the agent for the knowledge and handouts to make a successful experience.
• Market Lamb Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leader, and parents over show lamb selection, nutrition, facilities, health, and ethics. A PowerPoint presentation as prepared by the agent to show actual lambs and to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many questions were answered and anxiety levels lowered as a result of this workshop. Although participation was low in the workshop the eight members and parents that participated in this event expressed their gratefulness and went on to select lambs that excelled at the county fair as well as the Shiprock Fair.
• Pig & Lamb Jackpot- This year the agent was directly responsible for all aspects of the “Four Corners Pig & Lamb Expo”. The Agent recruited volunteers to assist with the jackpot with check-in, announcing, ring help, and computer work. The agent held several planning meetings to discuss judges, prizes, concessions, and general preparation for the jackpot. Many hours were dedicated to making this jackpot a positive experience for 4-H youth and make this a learning situation for youth in the junior livestock program. 136 swine and 47 lambs were exhibited. 4-H members throughout the state as well as Colorado and Arizona gained experience in their 4-H projects through this experience. Members had a chance to prepare for the county fair by getting out in the show ring and practicing the skills that they learned at the agent’s workshop. This is a great reinforcement tool and members learned valuable skills relating to showmanship and their animals.
• San Juan County Fair- The San Juan County Fair is the largest county Fair in New Mexico. The Fair runs eight days and members exhibit their animals as well as indoor entries for the entire length of the fair. Over 350 members exhibit 4-H animal projects. 135 entries qualify for the Junior Livestock sale that brought in over $303,000 dollars and another $103,000 dollars were brought in for add-on’s for both sale and non-sale exhibitors. This money went directly to the youth for their hard work and efforts. The agent assisted many members while at the show and assisted with shows and performed many odd jobs during the week. Our county fair provides a great economic value as well as a positive learning experience for the youth of San Juan County. Many of the members that do not make the premium sale receive a large sum of money for their animals from local business to assist in making the 4-H animal project a positive experience. 552 indoor 4-H projects were exhibited by members at the county fair. This is consistent with last year and indicates members are completing their projects and learning life skills.
• New Mexico State Fair- The agent spent eight days assisting members at the State Fair. The Agent also assisted with the calf scramble show and designed and constructed the county booth. San Juan County had twenty-four members show animals at the state fair that included swine, beef, sheep, goats, and horses. Five members made the premium sale and sold their animals for a fair profit. San Juan Co. entered 167 exhibits from 67 4-H members in the indoor 4-H projects. Members placed well and had a chance to exhibit their projects for many visitors to enjoy! The New Mexico State Fair is a great learning experience for the members to exhibit their projects that they have worked on for the entire year.
• Home Visits- The agent made countless home visits throughout the year to assist members with their projects. While on home visits the agent evaluated the member’s animals as well as trimmed cattle hooves, scrapie tagged sheep, tattooed animals, assisted in DNA extraction for the New Mexico State Fair and national shows. Home visits are a great way for the agent to interact with members and parents on a one on one basis in a setting they felt comfortable in and able to ask many questions relating to the junior livestock program. Many times a livestock pen turns into an outdoor classroom and skills are animal husbandry skills are learned by 4-H members.
San Juan County 4-H Council
The Agent works with the youth council especially the Treasurer with quarterly financial reports as well as an annual report and breakdown to the Board of Trustees. The Council meets four times a year to discuss county 4-H business and make decisions for the county program. The agent works with the youth leaders to develop an agenda and execute the meetings. An Annual Awards Banquet is held in November to recognize members and Leaders for their hard work throughout the year. The youth plan and execute the banquet and are responsible for all aspects of the annual banquet. The agent acts as a resource for the council officers and works with other agents in the office to coordinate activities throughout the year. The Council sponsors an annual pre-fair cookout and members and parents come and have a relaxing time before the fair and meet the barn superintendents and fairboard members. The agent assists in all aspects of the activity including securing facilities, buying necessary items, preparing food, and meeting with members and parents a week prior to the fair at this event. It is a great activity to bring families together before a week of competition. The Council also sponsors the County Carnival. This event brings all the clubs together for fun, recreation, and fundraising. This year over 300 member, parents, leaders, and friends enjoyed an evening of 4-H fun. The agent assisted in organizing this event with the county council officers.
4-H Horse Program
San Juan County 4-H has an active horse program. The special interest club is called the Hoofbeat Gang. This club holds monthly meeting and semi-monthly clinics. Hoofbeat has thirty-six members. They elect officers and make club decisions at monthly meetings. The agent is responsible for finding adult leadership and for the past year three years; two volunteer leaders came forward to assume and share the duties of the club. The club raises money to assist member to attend State Horse School and to assist the members in their horsemanship abilities through fun shows and clinics. Two members participated in District and State 4-H Horse Show. Two members participated in NMSF Horse Show. The club ends it year with a banquet and members are rewarded and recognized for their efforts. The agent works closely with the leaders to plan for facilities, events, and county fair youth horse show. This year our county hosted the Northwest District Horse Show. Thirty-four 4-H members participated including seven from San Juan County. The agent assisted in all aspects of the show and assisted volunteer leaders and other 4-H agents where needed. Members from around the district were appreciative and learned many valuable skills including horsemanship, sportsmanship, responsibility and dedication to name a few. This activity was beneficial to the youth of the district.
4-H Rodeo
San Juan County 4-H has an active rodeo club with sixty-four members that hold six monthly rodeos and a rodeo at the San Juan County Fair. These rodeos make up a series that include end of the year awards. This is a saddle series, but many prizes are given including belt buckles, blankets, equipment, and jackets to name a few. Every member receives some sort of award and recognition at the end of the year for their hard work and dedication. The Agent worked with the officials and officers to ensure a quality rodeo for all the participants. Through this program members learn many life skills that include responsibility, safety, sportsmanship, and horsemanship. Through this club both adult and youth are elected to serve as officers and board members and decisions are made at monthly club meetings. Through the dedication of these individuals, a high quality program is delivered to over 60 participants. The agent works very closely with the leaders of the club to insure all rules are being followed and to assist in the preparations of the rodeos. The agent is also a liaison between the 4-H rodeo club and the fair board. The agent is called upon frequently to assist with situations which arise within the club. At the end of the year the club holds a banquet and members are rewarded for their efforts throughout the year. Rodeo safety is an important aspect of the sport. Every member is required to attend a safety class given by a certified county EMT. Proper paper work is required including a rodeo waiver and insurance information. The Agent is responsible for all correspondence between the insurance company and the rodeo members. Providing the safest environment is always in mind for the 4-H members participating.
4-H Shooting Sports
San Juan County has an active shooting sports program. Disciplines include shotgun, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, air rifle, compound archery and recurve archery. Our shooting sports program begins in late September with an organizational meeting presented by the agent and volunteer leaders. The agent is responsible for finding leaders in each discipline and working with the San Juan Wildlife Federation Range to schedule practices at the only range in the county. Every member is required to receive safety training and the agent always recruits leaders that emphasize safety above everything else. Bi-weekly practices are held in the fall and weekly practices are held in each discipline in the spring. 38 members participated in practices throughout the year and members participated in county contests as well as district for the novice and junior members and state for the senior members. 4-H members from San Juan County are always prepared for district and state competitions and display safety at all the events. This year the Shotgun team one the state contest and participated in the National 4-H contest in Nebraska. Four team members and seven adults traveled to Grand Island, NE to represent the State well. The agent assisted in the preparation of the trip and worked closely with the leaders to insure an educational and organized trip. The agent also served as the match director for the State Archery contest. Responsibilities included setting up the FIDA and 3-D courses to specifications and running the contest. Over 50 members state-wide participated in this event.
State and National Events
This year 21 members and three volunteer leaders participated in Senior Leadership Retreat in Albuquerque. Members learned many valuable leadership skills that they brought back to the county program. The also got a chance to meet and socialize with other 4-H members throughout the state. 5members and a leader participated in Youth Get-Away at Camp Inlow this year. All the members had a great time and learned communication and team building skills. The also got a chance to get to know other members throughout the state. Eight members got a chance to participate in State 4-H Conference. These members judged at the state level and be a part of the State 4-H Council and electing a new leadership team. The agent directly trained the livestock, livestock skillathon, and meats team. All members showed success and placed in the top four in two contests. The agent also took four members to Texas Tech University to train for Livestock and Meats judging where these members had three intensive days of hands-on training. Thirty-four members participated in a county contests. The agent was responsible for organizing the contests, setting up contests, grading contests, and recruiting leaders to assist. The County Council officers awarded the winners with ribbons and certificates. Nineteen members from San Juan County participated in the NE/NW 4-H District contest in Santa Fe, NM. The agent trained teams and was responsible for the horticulture contest and livestock contest serving as co-superintendent. San Juan County 4-H members were well represented and won many awards during the two day event.
4-H Ski School
The agent schedules and plans for two 4-H ski schools at Durango Mountain Resort at Purgatory. This event is a day of fun for the members and La Plata County 4-H in Colorado is also invited. The youth receive a ½ day lesson and ½ day of skiing/snowboarding. Members get a chance to enjoy one another without competition and build many 4-H friendships. This year 75 members and 26 volunteers participated in the event. This fun event is the highlight of many 4-H members year.
Expanded 4-H
The agent is responsible for delivering the Master Seed Program to the 4th graders of San Juan County in cooperation with Master Gardner graduates. This is a program that teaches the basics of plant growth including soil, seeds, photosynthesis, plant nutrient needs, and insects. Every student has the opportunity to plant a seed in soil and watch it form and grow. The agent along with master gardeners, present this information directly to the students throughout the county. This year 344 student’s received instruction in the master seed program and was once again a huge success with the students and teachers.
The agent spends time working with local FFA chapters with career development events and training youth in livestock judging, parliamentary procedure, wool, meats, and poultry. Over thirty youth were directly taught and assisted in decision making skill events.
San Juan County has 613 traditional 4-H members and 38 Cloverbud members for a total of 651 enrolled in community clubs. Of the 613 traditional members, 236 were 1st year members, 175 were 2-3 year members, and 202 were members for over 4 years. These number represents a 15% overall increase over last year. The county has forty-two community clubs for members to join and be a part of. 98% of the members developed skills relating to the projects they were enrolled in as is evident through their project completion which includes, but not limited to, livestock shows, pet shows, rodeos, horse shows, indoor project competition and record book completion. 75% of the members displayed leadership traits through local club work by serving as officers, committee members, pledge leaders, etc. Members also demonstrated leadership qualities by serving as County Council Officers and participating in various 4-H activities such as county contests, council meetings state and national events.
The Agent was mainly responsible for the agricultural and natural resource side of the 4-H program as well as assisting with County Council events for the 2008-09 program year. Programs this year include:
Youth Development
Junior Livestock Program
The Agent spent a substantial amount of time in assisting members, parents and volunteer leaders in the Junior Livestock Program. This program is designed to directly impact youth and increase their life skills. Members complete their projects at the San Juan County Fair, New Mexico State Fair, Arizona National Livestock Show, and National Western Livestock Show in Denver. In 2009 the San Juan County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised over $406,000 in sale receipts and “add-on’s” to 4-H members that made the sale as well as members that had non sale animals. This past year in the county we had 72 market steers, 185 market sheep, 203 market swine, 79 market goats, 82 breeding animals (including beef, sheep, and goats), 40 show horses, 151 poultry entries, and 117 rabbit entries.
Many programs within the Junior Livestock program were developed and delivered to assist members and help make their experience in the program a positive learning one. Programs include:
• Market Steer Selection & Feeding Workshop- The agent presented a program in October to members, leaders and parents about selection, feeding, facilities and care of a market steer/breeding heifer. A PowerPoint presentation was given to assist members before they purchased their animals. Handouts were provided to families to assist throughout the year. Many examples were given to both positive attributes and negative attributes on many market steers to improve the member’s chances of having a good experience. This program concluded with many question and answers. The agent offered his services to help members select animals at sales and farms and this offer was taken up by many of the members. The agent educated members and leaders on all aspects of raising beef for show and gave members valuable information to assist them in the learning process of raising show cattle. Through this education, members developed skills in all aspects of raising and showing beef animals as well as life skills which include sportsmanship, responsibility, and dedication. Fifteen members and parents attended the workshop.
• Monthly Steer Weigh Days- The agent held monthly steer weigh days to assist members with their market steer projects. Weights were recorded to show the amount of growth in a month and to assist members on feeding programs. The animals were evaluated by the agent and suggestions were given to help make the project a success. Six weigh days were held from January through June at the County Fairgrounds on the certified scale that is used during the fair. All members in the beef project attended at least one weigh day throughout the year.
• Steer Jackpots- Members from the county attended jackpots in Portales, Las Cruces, and Farmington. The agent assisted members in preparation of their steers before leaving to attend the jackpots in Portales, Farmington, and Las Cruces. Grooming and showing techniques were taught to members and parents to increase knowledge and success in the show ring. The agent was directly responsible for preparing and putting on the “Sno-Ball Classic” Jackpot in Farmington. The agent secured judges, facilities, prizes, money, and state contract with the NMCCA to sanction this jackpot. The agent developed advertising to promote the jackpot and recruited members to participate to develop skills necessary to be successful at showing and raising cattle. Although this jackpot is co-sponsored with the Aztec FFA Alumni, this year much of the responsibilities fell upon the agent. This year we had 55 calves showed up from Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico, several more local 4-H Members came to watch and learn. The jackpot was a great experience and gave members an opportunity to exhibit their 4-H project and “Learn by Doing”.
• Market Swine Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leaders, and parents on market swine selection, care, and feeding. A PowerPoint presentation was given to stress the importance of proper selection techniques in selecting market show swine as well as many feeding options. Issues relating to muscle, leanness, and structure were discussed. The agent covered proper facilities and show time preparation. Members left with a feeling of excitement as they participated in the seminar and expressed their gratitude for the information and was followed up with many calls about raising show swine. The agent also had a section dedicated to show ring ethics. Although only 12 members and parents participated, those that did expressed gratitude toward the agent for the knowledge and handouts to make a successful experience.
• Market Lamb Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leader, and parents over show lamb selection, nutrition, facilities, health, and ethics. A PowerPoint presentation as prepared by the agent to show actual lambs and to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many questions were answered and anxiety levels lowered as a result of this workshop. Although participation was low in the workshop the eight members and parents that participated in this event expressed their gratefulness and went on to select lambs that excelled at the county fair as well as the Shiprock Fair.
• Pig & Lamb Jackpot- This year the agent was directly responsible for all aspects of the “Four Corners Pig & Lamb Expo”. The Agent recruited volunteers to assist with the jackpot with check-in, announcing, ring help, and computer work. The agent held several planning meetings to discuss judges, prizes, concessions, and general preparation for the jackpot. Many hours were dedicated to making this jackpot a positive experience for 4-H youth and make this a learning situation for youth in the junior livestock program. 136 swine and 47 lambs were exhibited. 4-H members throughout the state as well as Colorado and Arizona gained experience in their 4-H projects through this experience. Members had a chance to prepare for the county fair by getting out in the show ring and practicing the skills that they learned at the agent’s workshop. This is a great reinforcement tool and members learned valuable skills relating to showmanship and their animals.
• San Juan County Fair- The San Juan County Fair is the largest county Fair in New Mexico. The Fair runs eight days and members exhibit their animals as well as indoor entries for the entire length of the fair. Over 350 members exhibit 4-H animal projects. 135 entries qualify for the Junior Livestock sale that brought in over $303,000 dollars and another $103,000 dollars were brought in for add-on’s for both sale and non-sale exhibitors. This money went directly to the youth for their hard work and efforts. The agent assisted many members while at the show and assisted with shows and performed many odd jobs during the week. Our county fair provides a great economic value as well as a positive learning experience for the youth of San Juan County. Many of the members that do not make the premium sale receive a large sum of money for their animals from local business to assist in making the 4-H animal project a positive experience. 552 indoor 4-H projects were exhibited by members at the county fair. This is consistent with last year and indicates members are completing their projects and learning life skills.
• New Mexico State Fair- The agent spent eight days assisting members at the State Fair. The Agent also assisted with the calf scramble show and designed and constructed the county booth. San Juan County had twenty-four members show animals at the state fair that included swine, beef, sheep, goats, and horses. Five members made the premium sale and sold their animals for a fair profit. San Juan Co. entered 167 exhibits from 67 4-H members in the indoor 4-H projects. Members placed well and had a chance to exhibit their projects for many visitors to enjoy! The New Mexico State Fair is a great learning experience for the members to exhibit their projects that they have worked on for the entire year.
• Home Visits- The agent made countless home visits throughout the year to assist members with their projects. While on home visits the agent evaluated the member’s animals as well as trimmed cattle hooves, scrapie tagged sheep, tattooed animals, assisted in DNA extraction for the New Mexico State Fair and national shows. Home visits are a great way for the agent to interact with members and parents on a one on one basis in a setting they felt comfortable in and able to ask many questions relating to the junior livestock program. Many times a livestock pen turns into an outdoor classroom and skills are animal husbandry skills are learned by 4-H members.
San Juan County 4-H Council
The Agent works with the youth council especially the Treasurer with quarterly financial reports as well as an annual report and breakdown to the Board of Trustees. The Council meets four times a year to discuss county 4-H business and make decisions for the county program. The agent works with the youth leaders to develop an agenda and execute the meetings. An Annual Awards Banquet is held in November to recognize members and Leaders for their hard work throughout the year. The youth plan and execute the banquet and are responsible for all aspects of the annual banquet. The agent acts as a resource for the council officers and works with other agents in the office to coordinate activities throughout the year. The Council sponsors an annual pre-fair cookout and members and parents come and have a relaxing time before the fair and meet the barn superintendents and fairboard members. The agent assists in all aspects of the activity including securing facilities, buying necessary items, preparing food, and meeting with members and parents a week prior to the fair at this event. It is a great activity to bring families together before a week of competition. The Council also sponsors the County Carnival. This event brings all the clubs together for fun, recreation, and fundraising. This year over 300 member, parents, leaders, and friends enjoyed an evening of 4-H fun. The agent assisted in organizing this event with the county council officers.
4-H Horse Program
San Juan County 4-H has an active horse program. The special interest club is called the Hoofbeat Gang. This club holds monthly meeting and semi-monthly clinics. Hoofbeat has thirty-six members. They elect officers and make club decisions at monthly meetings. The agent is responsible for finding adult leadership and for the past year three years; two volunteer leaders came forward to assume and share the duties of the club. The club raises money to assist member to attend State Horse School and to assist the members in their horsemanship abilities through fun shows and clinics. Two members participated in District and State 4-H Horse Show. Two members participated in NMSF Horse Show. The club ends it year with a banquet and members are rewarded and recognized for their efforts. The agent works closely with the leaders to plan for facilities, events, and county fair youth horse show. This year our county hosted the Northwest District Horse Show. Thirty-four 4-H members participated including seven from San Juan County. The agent assisted in all aspects of the show and assisted volunteer leaders and other 4-H agents where needed. Members from around the district were appreciative and learned many valuable skills including horsemanship, sportsmanship, responsibility and dedication to name a few. This activity was beneficial to the youth of the district.
4-H Rodeo
San Juan County 4-H has an active rodeo club with sixty-four members that hold six monthly rodeos and a rodeo at the San Juan County Fair. These rodeos make up a series that include end of the year awards. This is a saddle series, but many prizes are given including belt buckles, blankets, equipment, and jackets to name a few. Every member receives some sort of award and recognition at the end of the year for their hard work and dedication. The Agent worked with the officials and officers to ensure a quality rodeo for all the participants. Through this program members learn many life skills that include responsibility, safety, sportsmanship, and horsemanship. Through this club both adult and youth are elected to serve as officers and board members and decisions are made at monthly club meetings. Through the dedication of these individuals, a high quality program is delivered to over 60 participants. The agent works very closely with the leaders of the club to insure all rules are being followed and to assist in the preparations of the rodeos. The agent is also a liaison between the 4-H rodeo club and the fair board. The agent is called upon frequently to assist with situations which arise within the club. At the end of the year the club holds a banquet and members are rewarded for their efforts throughout the year. Rodeo safety is an important aspect of the sport. Every member is required to attend a safety class given by a certified county EMT. Proper paper work is required including a rodeo waiver and insurance information. The Agent is responsible for all correspondence between the insurance company and the rodeo members. Providing the safest environment is always in mind for the 4-H members participating.
4-H Shooting Sports
San Juan County has an active shooting sports program. Disciplines include shotgun, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, air rifle, compound archery and recurve archery. Our shooting sports program begins in late September with an organizational meeting presented by the agent and volunteer leaders. The agent is responsible for finding leaders in each discipline and working with the San Juan Wildlife Federation Range to schedule practices at the only range in the county. Every member is required to receive safety training and the agent always recruits leaders that emphasize safety above everything else. Bi-weekly practices are held in the fall and weekly practices are held in each discipline in the spring. 38 members participated in practices throughout the year and members participated in county contests as well as district for the novice and junior members and state for the senior members. 4-H members from San Juan County are always prepared for district and state competitions and display safety at all the events. This year the Shotgun team one the state contest and participated in the National 4-H contest in Nebraska. Four team members and seven adults traveled to Grand Island, NE to represent the State well. The agent assisted in the preparation of the trip and worked closely with the leaders to insure an educational and organized trip. The agent also served as the match director for the State Archery contest. Responsibilities included setting up the FIDA and 3-D courses to specifications and running the contest. Over 50 members state-wide participated in this event.
State and National Events
This year 21 members and three volunteer leaders participated in Senior Leadership Retreat in Albuquerque. Members learned many valuable leadership skills that they brought back to the county program. The also got a chance to meet and socialize with other 4-H members throughout the state. 5members and a leader participated in Youth Get-Away at Camp Inlow this year. All the members had a great time and learned communication and team building skills. The also got a chance to get to know other members throughout the state. Eight members got a chance to participate in State 4-H Conference. These members judged at the state level and be a part of the State 4-H Council and electing a new leadership team. The agent directly trained the livestock, livestock skillathon, and meats team. All members showed success and placed in the top four in two contests. The agent also took four members to Texas Tech University to train for Livestock and Meats judging where these members had three intensive days of hands-on training. Thirty-four members participated in a county contests. The agent was responsible for organizing the contests, setting up contests, grading contests, and recruiting leaders to assist. The County Council officers awarded the winners with ribbons and certificates. Nineteen members from San Juan County participated in the NE/NW 4-H District contest in Santa Fe, NM. The agent trained teams and was responsible for the horticulture contest and livestock contest serving as co-superintendent. San Juan County 4-H members were well represented and won many awards during the two day event.
4-H Ski School
The agent schedules and plans for two 4-H ski schools at Durango Mountain Resort at Purgatory. This event is a day of fun for the members and La Plata County 4-H in Colorado is also invited. The youth receive a ½ day lesson and ½ day of skiing/snowboarding. Members get a chance to enjoy one another without competition and build many 4-H friendships. This year 75 members and 26 volunteers participated in the event. This fun event is the highlight of many 4-H members year.
Expanded 4-H
The agent is responsible for delivering the Master Seed Program to the 4th graders of San Juan County in cooperation with Master Gardner graduates. This is a program that teaches the basics of plant growth including soil, seeds, photosynthesis, plant nutrient needs, and insects. Every student has the opportunity to plant a seed in soil and watch it form and grow. The agent along with master gardeners, present this information directly to the students throughout the county. This year 344 student’s received instruction in the master seed program and was once again a huge success with the students and teachers.
The agent spends time working with local FFA chapters with career development events and training youth in livestock judging, parliamentary procedure, wool, meats, and poultry. Over thirty youth were directly taught and assisted in decision making skill events.
San Juan County has 556 traditional 4-H members enrolled in community clubs of these 556, 217 were 1st year members, 167 were 2-3 year members, and 172 were members for over 4 years. The county has thirty-five community clubs for members to join and be a part of. 98% of the members developed skills relating to the projects they were enrolled in as is evident through their project completion which includes, but not limited to, livestock shows, pet shows, rodeos, indoor project competition and record book completion. 75% of the members displayed leadership traits through local club work by serving as officers, committee members, pledge leaders, etc. Members also demonstrated leadership qualities by serving as County council Officers and State Officers. Members participated in county-wide and state-wide leadership events and trainings.
The Agent was mainly responsible for the agricultural and natural resource side of the 4-H program for the 2007-08 program year. Programs this year include:
Youth Development
Junior Livestock Program
The Agent spent a substantial amount of time in assisting members, parents and volunteer leaders in the Junior Livestock Program. This program is designed to directly impact youth and increase their life skills. Members complete their projects at the San Juan County Fair, New Mexico State Fair, Arizona National Livestock Show, and National Western Livestock Show in Denver. In 2007 the San Juan County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised over $550,000 in sale receipts and “add-on’s” to 4-H members that made the sale as well as members that had non sale animals. This past year in the county we had 70 market steers, 186 market sheep, 233 market swine, 45 market goats, 82 breeding animals (including beef, sheep, and goats), 42 show horses, 111 poultry entries, and 129 rabbit entries.
Many programs within the Junior Livestock program were developed and delivered to assist members and help make their experience in the program a positive one. Programs include:
• Market Steer Selection & Feeding Workshop- The agent presented a program in October to members and parents about selection, feeding, facilities and care of a market steer. A PowerPoint presentation was given to assist members before they purchased their animals. Many handouts were provided to families to assist throughout the year. Many examples were given to both positive attributes and negative attributes on many market steers. This program concluded with many question and answers. The agent offered his services to help members select animals at sales and farms and this offer was taken up by many of the members. The agent educated members and leaders on all aspects of raising beef for show and gave members valuable information to assist them in the learning process of raising show cattle. Through this education, members developed skills in all aspects of raising and showing beef animals as well as life skills which include sportsmanship, responsibility, and dedication. Twelve members and parents attended the workshop.
• Monthly Steer Weigh Days- The agent held monthly steer weigh days to assist members with their market steer projects. Weights were recorded to show the amount of growth in a month and to assist members on feeding programs. The animals were evaluated by the agent and suggestions were given to help make the project a success. Six weigh days were held from January through July at the County Fairgrounds on the certified scale that is used during the fair. All members in the beef project attended at least one weigh day throughout the year.
• Steer Jackpots- Members from the county attended jackpots in Portales, Las Cruces, Denver, and Farmington. The agent assisted members in preparation of their steers before leaving to attend the jackpots in Portales, Farmington, and Las Cruces. Grooming and showing techniques were taught to members and parents to increase knowledge and success in the show ring. The agent was directly responsible for preparing and putting on the “Sno-Ball Classic” Jackpot in Farmington. The agent secured judges, facilities, prizes, money, and state contract with the NMCCA to sanction this jackpot. The agent developed advertising to promote the jackpot and recruited members to participate to develop skills necessary to be successful at showing and raising cattle. Although this jackpot is co-sponsored with the Aztec FFA Alumni, this year much of the responsibilities fell upon the agent. Although we only had 35 calves showed up from Colorado and New Mexico this year, several more came to watch and learn. The jackpot was a great experience and gave members an opportunity to exhibit their 4-H project and “Learn by Doing”.
• Market Swine Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leaders, and parents on market swine selection, care, and feeding. A PowerPoint presentation was given to stress the importance of proper selection techniques in selecting market show swine as well as many feeding options. Issues relating to muscle, leanness, and structure were discussed. The agent covered proper facilities and show time preparation. Members left with a feeling of excitement as they participated in the seminar and expressed their gratitude for the information and was followed up with many calls about raising show swine.
• Market Lamb Selection Workshop- The agent recruited a former 4-H member that had many successes showing lambs to assist with the presentation of this workshop. This previous 4-H member has raised the grand lamb at the county fair as well as many successes at state and regional shows. He is a respected member of the 4-H community. This presentation included areas of nutrition, selection, facilities, and animal health. A PowerPoint presentation as prepared by the agent in conjunction with the former member to show actual lambs and to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many questions were answered and anxiety levels lowered as a result of this workshop. Although participation was low in the workshop the nine members and parents that participated in this event expressed their gratefulness and went on to select lambs that excelled at the county fair as well as the Shiprock Fair.
• Pig & Lamb Jackpot- This year the agent was directly responsible for all aspects of the “Four Corners Pig & Lamb Expo”. The Agent recruited volunteers to assist with the jackpot with check-in, announcing, ring help, and computer work. The agent held several planning meetings to discuss judges, prizes, concessions, and general preparation for the jackpot. Many hours were dedicated to making this jackpot a positive experience for 4-H youth and make this a learning situation for youth in the junior livestock program. 135 swine and 42 lambs were exhibited. 4-H members throughout the state as well as Colorado and Arizona gained experience in their 4-H projects through this experience.
• San Juan County Fair- The San Juan County Fair is the largest county Fair in New Mexico. The Fair runs eight days and members exhibit their animals as well as indoor entries for the entire length of the fair. Over 350 members exhibit 4-H animal projects. 126 entries qualify for the Junior Livestock sale that brought in over $424,000 dollars and another $126,000 dollars were brought in for add-on’s for both sale and non-sale exhibitors. This money went directly to the youth for their hard work and efforts. The agent assisted many members while at the show and assisted with shows and performed many odd jobs during the week. The agent was responsible for organizing and finding sponsors the County Bred Steer Show. The agent collected money and prizes and was instrumental in the presentation of the show. Our county fair provides a great economic value as well as a positive learning experience for the youth of San Juan County. Many of the members that do not make the premium sale receive a large sum of money for their animals from local business to assist in making the 4-H animal project a positive experience. 598 indoor 4-H projects were exhibited by members at the county fair. This is a large increase over last year and indicates more members are completing their projects and learning life skills.
• New Mexico State Fair- The agent spent eight days assisting members at the State Fair. The Agent also assisted with the calf scramble show. San Juan County had twenty-seven members show animals at the state fair that included swine, beef, sheep, goats, horses, rabbits and poultry. Four members made the premium sale and sold their animals for a fair profit. San Juan Co. entered 214 exhibits from 83 4-H members in the indoor 4-H projects. Members placed well and had a chance to exhibit their projects for many visitors to enjoy! The New Mexico State Fair is a great learning experience for the members to exhibit their projects that they have worked on for the entire year.
• Home Visits- The agent made countless home visits throughout the year to assist members with their projects. While on home visits the agent evaluated the member’s animals as well as trimmed cattle hooves, scrapie tagged sheep, tattooed animals, assisted in DNA extraction for the New Mexico State Fair and national shows. Home visits are a great way for the agent to interact with members and parents on a one on one basis in a setting they felt comfortable in and able to ask many questions relating to the junior livestock program. Many times a livestock pen turns into an outdoor classroom and skills are animal husbandry skills are learned by 4-H members.
San Juan County 4-H Council
The Agent works with the youth council especially the Treasurer with quarterly financial reports as well as an annual report and breakdown to the Board of Trustees. The Council meets four times a year to discuss county 4-H business and make decisions for the county program. An Annual Awards Banquet is held in November to recognize members and Leaders for their hard work throughout the year. The youth plan and execute the banquet and are responsible for all aspects of the annual banquet. The agent acts as a resource for the council officers and works with other agents in the office to coordinate activities throughout the year. The Council sponsors an annual pre-fair cookout and members and parents come and have a relaxing time before the fair and meet the barn superintendents and fairboard members. The agent assists in all aspects of the activity including securing facilities, buying necessary items, preparing food, and meeting with members and parents a week prior to the fair at this event. It is a great activity to bring families together before a week of competition.
4-H Horse Program
San Juan County 4-H has an active horse program. The special interest club is called the Hoofbeat Gang. This club holds monthly meeting and semi-monthly clinics. Hoofbeat has thirty-six members. They elect officers and make club decisions at monthly meetings. The agent is responsible for finding adult leadership and for the past year three years; two volunteer leaders came forward to assume and share the duties of the club. The club raises money to assist member to attend State Horse School and to assist the members in their horsemanship abilities through fun shows and clinics. Two members participated in District and State 4-H Horse Show. Two members participated in NMSF Horse Show. The club ends it year with a banquet and members are rewarded and recognized for their efforts. The agent works closely with the leaders to plan for facilities, events, and county fair youth horse show.
4-H Rodeo
San Juan County 4-H has an active rodeo club with forty-seven members and holds six monthly rodeos and two rodeos at the San Juan County Fair. These rodeos make up a series that include end of the year awards. This is a saddle series, but many prizes are given including belt buckles, blankets, equipment, and jackets to name a few. Every member receives some sort of award and recognition at the end of the year for their hard work and dedication. The Agent worked with the officials and officers to ensure a quality rodeo for all the participants. Through this program members learn many life skills that include responsibility, safety, sportsmanship, and horsemanship. Through this club both adult and youth are elected to serve as officers and board members and decisions are made at monthly club meetings. Through the dedication of these individuals, a high quality program is delivered to over 60 participants. The agent works very closely with the leaders of the club to insure all rules are being followed and to assist in the preparations of the rodeos. The agent is also a liaison between the 4-H rodeo club and the fair board. The agent is called upon frequently to assist with situations which arise within the club. At the end of the year the club holds a banquet and members are rewarded for their efforts throughout the year. Rodeo safety is an important aspect of the sport. Every member is required to attend a safety class given by a certified county EMT. Proper paper work is required including a rodeo waiver and insurance information. The Agent is responsible for all correspondence between the insurance company and the rodeo members. Providing the safest environment is always in mind for the 4-H members participating.
4-H Shooting Sports
San Juan County has an active shooting sports program. Disciplines include shotgun, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, air rifle, compound archery and recurve archery. Our shooting sports program begins in late September with an organizational meeting presented by the agent and volunteer leaders. The agent is responsible for finding leaders in each discipline and working with the San Juan Wildlife Federation Range to schedule practices at the only range in the county. Every member is required to receive safety training and the agent always recruits leaders that emphasize safety above everything else. Bi-weekly practices are held in the fall and weekly practices are held in each discipline in the spring. 56 members participated in practices throughout the year and members participated in county contests as well as district for the novice and junior members and state for the senior members. 4-H members from San Juan County are always prepared for district and state competitions and display safety at all the events. The agent also served as the match director for the State Archery contest. Responsibilities included setting up the FIDA and 3-D courses to specifications and running the contest. Over 50 members state-wide participated in this event.
Expanded 4-H
The agent is responsible for delivering the Master Seed Program to the 4th graders of San Juan County in cooperation with Master Gardner graduates. This is a program that teaches the basics of plant growth including soil, seeds, photosynthesis, plant nutrient needs, and insects. Every student has the opportunity to plant a seed in soil and watch it form and grow. The agent along with master gardeners, present this information directly to the students throughout the county. This year 939 student’s received instruction in the master seed program and was once again a huge success with the students and teachers.
In October we hold our annual Kids, Kows, and More program at the county fairgrounds. Local 3-4 graders are invited to attend a three hour program about agriculture in San Juan County. This program is held in conjunction with Southwest Diary and the main components are a milking dairy cow, beef production, Navajo Agricultural Products, horse production, Soil & Water Conservation, and 4-H animal projects. 252 students, teacher and parents attended this program. The agent was responsible for all aspects of coordination of this program including set-up, scheduling, contacting local schools, and recruiting presenters for the program.
The agent spends time working with local FFA chapters with career development events and training youth in livestock judging, parliamentary procedure, wool, and poultry. Over thirty youth were directly taught and assisted in decision making skills.
The Agent was mainly responsible for the agricultural and natural resource side of the 4-H program for the 2007-08 program year. Programs this year include:
Youth Development
Junior Livestock Program
The Agent spent a substantial amount of time in assisting members, parents and volunteer leaders in the Junior Livestock Program. This program is designed to directly impact youth and increase their life skills. Members complete their projects at the San Juan County Fair, New Mexico State Fair, Arizona National Livestock Show, and National Western Livestock Show in Denver. In 2007 the San Juan County Fair Junior Livestock Auction raised over $550,000 in sale receipts and “add-on’s” to 4-H members that made the sale as well as members that had non sale animals. This past year in the county we had 70 market steers, 186 market sheep, 233 market swine, 45 market goats, 82 breeding animals (including beef, sheep, and goats), 42 show horses, 111 poultry entries, and 129 rabbit entries.
Many programs within the Junior Livestock program were developed and delivered to assist members and help make their experience in the program a positive one. Programs include:
• Market Steer Selection & Feeding Workshop- The agent presented a program in October to members and parents about selection, feeding, facilities and care of a market steer. A PowerPoint presentation was given to assist members before they purchased their animals. Many handouts were provided to families to assist throughout the year. Many examples were given to both positive attributes and negative attributes on many market steers. This program concluded with many question and answers. The agent offered his services to help members select animals at sales and farms and this offer was taken up by many of the members. The agent educated members and leaders on all aspects of raising beef for show and gave members valuable information to assist them in the learning process of raising show cattle. Through this education, members developed skills in all aspects of raising and showing beef animals as well as life skills which include sportsmanship, responsibility, and dedication. Twelve members and parents attended the workshop.
• Monthly Steer Weigh Days- The agent held monthly steer weigh days to assist members with their market steer projects. Weights were recorded to show the amount of growth in a month and to assist members on feeding programs. The animals were evaluated by the agent and suggestions were given to help make the project a success. Six weigh days were held from January through July at the County Fairgrounds on the certified scale that is used during the fair. All members in the beef project attended at least one weigh day throughout the year.
• Steer Jackpots- Members from the county attended jackpots in Portales, Las Cruces, Denver, and Farmington. The agent assisted members in preparation of their steers before leaving to attend the jackpots in Portales, Farmington, and Las Cruces. Grooming and showing techniques were taught to members and parents to increase knowledge and success in the show ring. The agent was directly responsible for preparing and putting on the “Sno-Ball Classic” Jackpot in Farmington. The agent secured judges, facilities, prizes, money, and state contract with the NMCCA to sanction this jackpot. The agent developed advertising to promote the jackpot and recruited members to participate to develop skills necessary to be successful at showing and raising cattle. Although this jackpot is co-sponsored with the Aztec FFA Alumni, this year much of the responsibilities fell upon the agent. Although we only had 35 calves showed up from Colorado and New Mexico this year, several more came to watch and learn. The jackpot was a great experience and gave members an opportunity to exhibit their 4-H project and “Learn by Doing”.
• Market Swine Selection Workshop- The agent prepared and presented a program to members, leaders, and parents on market swine selection, care, and feeding. A PowerPoint presentation was given to stress the importance of proper selection techniques in selecting market show swine as well as many feeding options. Issues relating to muscle, leanness, and structure were discussed. The agent covered proper facilities and show time preparation. Members left with a feeling of excitement as they participated in the seminar and expressed their gratitude for the information and was followed up with many calls about raising show swine.
• Market Lamb Selection Workshop- The agent recruited a former 4-H member that had many successes showing lambs to assist with the presentation of this workshop. This previous 4-H member has raised the grand lamb at the county fair as well as many successes at state and regional shows. He is a respected member of the 4-H community. This presentation included areas of nutrition, selection, facilities, and animal health. A PowerPoint presentation as prepared by the agent in conjunction with the former member to show actual lambs and to discuss strengths and weaknesses. Many questions were answered and anxiety levels lowered as a result of this workshop. Although participation was low in the workshop the nine members and parents that participated in this event expressed their gratefulness and went on to select lambs that excelled at the county fair as well as the Shiprock Fair.
• Pig & Lamb Jackpot- This year the agent was directly responsible for all aspects of the “Four Corners Pig & Lamb Expo”. The Agent recruited volunteers to assist with the jackpot with check-in, announcing, ring help, and computer work. The agent held several planning meetings to discuss judges, prizes, concessions, and general preparation for the jackpot. Many hours were dedicated to making this jackpot a positive experience for 4-H youth and make this a learning situation for youth in the junior livestock program. 135 swine and 42 lambs were exhibited. 4-H members throughout the state as well as Colorado and Arizona gained experience in their 4-H projects through this experience.
• San Juan County Fair- The San Juan County Fair is the largest county Fair in New Mexico. The Fair runs eight days and members exhibit their animals as well as indoor entries for the entire length of the fair. Over 350 members exhibit 4-H animal projects. 126 entries qualify for the Junior Livestock sale that brought in over $424,000 dollars and another $126,000 dollars were brought in for add-on’s for both sale and non-sale exhibitors. This money went directly to the youth for their hard work and efforts. The agent assisted many members while at the show and assisted with shows and performed many odd jobs during the week. The agent was responsible for organizing and finding sponsors the County Bred Steer Show. The agent collected money and prizes and was instrumental in the presentation of the show. Our county fair provides a great economic value as well as a positive learning experience for the youth of San Juan County. Many of the members that do not make the premium sale receive a large sum of money for their animals from local business to assist in making the 4-H animal project a positive experience. 598 indoor 4-H projects were exhibited by members at the county fair. This is a large increase over last year and indicates more members are completing their projects and learning life skills.
• New Mexico State Fair- The agent spent eight days assisting members at the State Fair. The Agent also assisted with the calf scramble show. San Juan County had twenty-seven members show animals at the state fair that included swine, beef, sheep, goats, horses, rabbits and poultry. Four members made the premium sale and sold their animals for a fair profit. San Juan Co. entered 214 exhibits from 83 4-H members in the indoor 4-H projects. Members placed well and had a chance to exhibit their projects for many visitors to enjoy! The New Mexico State Fair is a great learning experience for the members to exhibit their projects that they have worked on for the entire year.
• Home Visits- The agent made countless home visits throughout the year to assist members with their projects. While on home visits the agent evaluated the member’s animals as well as trimmed cattle hooves, scrapie tagged sheep, tattooed animals, assisted in DNA extraction for the New Mexico State Fair and national shows. Home visits are a great way for the agent to interact with members and parents on a one on one basis in a setting they felt comfortable in and able to ask many questions relating to the junior livestock program. Many times a livestock pen turns into an outdoor classroom and skills are animal husbandry skills are learned by 4-H members.
San Juan County 4-H Council
The Agent works with the youth council especially the Treasurer with quarterly financial reports as well as an annual report and breakdown to the Board of Trustees. The Council meets four times a year to discuss county 4-H business and make decisions for the county program. An Annual Awards Banquet is held in November to recognize members and Leaders for their hard work throughout the year. The youth plan and execute the banquet and are responsible for all aspects of the annual banquet. The agent acts as a resource for the council officers and works with other agents in the office to coordinate activities throughout the year. The Council sponsors an annual pre-fair cookout and members and parents come and have a relaxing time before the fair and meet the barn superintendents and fairboard members. The agent assists in all aspects of the activity including securing facilities, buying necessary items, preparing food, and meeting with members and parents a week prior to the fair at this event. It is a great activity to bring families together before a week of competition.
4-H Horse Program
San Juan County 4-H has an active horse program. The special interest club is called the Hoofbeat Gang. This club holds monthly meeting and semi-monthly clinics. Hoofbeat has thirty-six members. They elect officers and make club decisions at monthly meetings. The agent is responsible for finding adult leadership and for the past year three years; two volunteer leaders came forward to assume and share the duties of the club. The club raises money to assist member to attend State Horse School and to assist the members in their horsemanship abilities through fun shows and clinics. Two members participated in District and State 4-H Horse Show. Two members participated in NMSF Horse Show. The club ends it year with a banquet and members are rewarded and recognized for their efforts. The agent works closely with the leaders to plan for facilities, events, and county fair youth horse show.
4-H Rodeo
San Juan County 4-H has an active rodeo club with forty-seven members and holds six monthly rodeos and two rodeos at the San Juan County Fair. These rodeos make up a series that include end of the year awards. This is a saddle series, but many prizes are given including belt buckles, blankets, equipment, and jackets to name a few. Every member receives some sort of award and recognition at the end of the year for their hard work and dedication. The Agent worked with the officials and officers to ensure a quality rodeo for all the participants. Through this program members learn many life skills that include responsibility, safety, sportsmanship, and horsemanship. Through this club both adult and youth are elected to serve as officers and board members and decisions are made at monthly club meetings. Through the dedication of these individuals, a high quality program is delivered to over 60 participants. The agent works very closely with the leaders of the club to insure all rules are being followed and to assist in the preparations of the rodeos. The agent is also a liaison between the 4-H rodeo club and the fair board. The agent is called upon frequently to assist with situations which arise within the club. At the end of the year the club holds a banquet and members are rewarded for their efforts throughout the year. Rodeo safety is an important aspect of the sport. Every member is required to attend a safety class given by a certified county EMT. Proper paper work is required including a rodeo waiver and insurance information. The Agent is responsible for all correspondence between the insurance company and the rodeo members. Providing the safest environment is always in mind for the 4-H members participating.
4-H Shooting Sports
San Juan County has an active shooting sports program. Disciplines include shotgun, .22 rifle, .22 pistol, air rifle, compound archery and recurve archery. Our shooting sports program begins in late September with an organizational meeting presented by the agent and volunteer leaders. The agent is responsible for finding leaders in each discipline and working with the San Juan Wildlife Federation Range to schedule practices at the only range in the county. Every member is required to receive safety training and the agent always recruits leaders that emphasize safety above everything else. Bi-weekly practices are held in the fall and weekly practices are held in each discipline in the spring. 56 members participated in practices throughout the year and members participated in county contests as well as district for the novice and junior members and state for the senior members. 4-H members from San Juan County are always prepared for district and state competitions and display safety at all the events. The agent also served as the match director for the State Archery contest. Responsibilities included setting up the FIDA and 3-D courses to specifications and running the contest. Over 50 members state-wide participated in this event.
Expanded 4-H
The agent is responsible for delivering the Master Seed Program to the 4th graders of San Juan County in cooperation with Master Gardner graduates. This is a program that teaches the basics of plant growth including soil, seeds, photosynthesis, plant nutrient needs, and insects. Every student has the opportunity to plant a seed in soil and watch it form and grow. The agent along with master gardeners, present this information directly to the students throughout the county. This year 939 student’s received instruction in the master seed program and was once again a huge success with the students and teachers.
In October we hold our annual Kids, Kows, and More program at the county fairgrounds. Local 3-4 graders are invited to attend a three hour program about agriculture in San Juan County. This program is held in conjunction with Southwest Diary and the main components are a milking dairy cow, beef production, Navajo Agricultural Products, horse production, Soil & Water Conservation, and 4-H animal projects. 252 students, teacher and parents attended this program. The agent was responsible for all aspects of coordination of this program including set-up, scheduling, contacting local schools, and recruiting presenters for the program.
The agent spends time working with local FFA chapters with career development events and training youth in livestock judging, parliamentary procedure, wool, and poultry. Over thirty youth were directly taught and assisted in decision making skills.
Coordinated NM State 4-H Shooting Sports Contest in Raton, NM at the NRA Whittington Center. Senior age 4-H members participated in the event to demonstrate proficiencies in various shooting disciplines. Top placed teams qualified for the national event in June. There were 210 youth competing. (Increase of 35 4-Her’s from 2006.)
Presented 4-H Shooting Sports clinic at Lincoln County Ag. Days in Capitan, NM. Ag. Day is a multi-agency school field day focusing on introduction fifth graders to agriculture and its contribution to our live. Approximately 250students from Capitan Schools attended.
Coordinated the planning of NM State 4-H Horse School. 221 4-H members and leaders from New Mexico participated. The objective of the school is to assist 4-H members with their horsemanship skills as well as give the opportunities to learn more about the horse by attending equine related workshops. Leaders participate in sessions as well to take the program to their home counties and develop similar type educational events. Further introduced animal ID act through workshop by New Mexico Livestock Board and career development workshops. Evaluations indicated that audience was very favorable to the new focus. Received sponsorship of school from Horseman’s Supply and New Mexico Livestock Board.
Coordinated the planning of NM State 4-H Livestock Schools. 300 Four H members from Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico participated. The objective of the school is to assist 4-H members in learning about their livestock projects thru a variety of teaching methods. The methods range from hands on sessions to classroom type workshops. 4-H members and leaders learn showmanship, ethics, feeding and overall management of their projects. The educational curriculum is offered to 4-H participants in the following species of beef, dairy cattle, sheep, swine and meat goat. Received sponsorships from Southwest Dairy Producers, Ranch-Way and ADM Feeds.
Coordinated 16 agriculture and natural resources related contests for NM State 4-H Conference. 4-H members from across New Mexico participate in contest events geared to test senior aged 4-H member’s subject member’s knowledge. Over 300 4-H members participated in these related contests.
New Mexico State 4-H program serves as a co-sponsor to the Youth Hunter Education Challenge. Here youth from across the state experience challenge through a series of events to show their combined knowledge and skills in archery, muzzleloader, hunting, and orienteering. This specialist assisted with conducting the contest. Approximately 120 youth participated.
Conducted a safety shooting clinic at the Double H Ranch Conservation Day near Datil, NM. Conservation Day is a multi-agency school field day focusing on introduction fifth graders to wildlife management, waterfowl, water use, fishing, archery and shooting sports. Over 167 students from 7 schools in Catron, Socorro and Valencia Counties attended. Other participating agencies were: NM Game and Fish, US Fish and Wildlife, US Forest Service and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Coordinated NM State 4-H Shooting Sports Contest in Raton, NM at the NRA Whittington Center. Senior age 4-H members participated in the event to demonstrate proficiencies in various shooting disciplines. Top placed teams qualified for the national event in June. There were 210 youth competing. (Increase of 35 4-Her’s from 2006.)
Presented 4-H Shooting Sports clinic at Lincoln County Ag. Days in Capitan, NM. Ag. Day is a multi-agency school field day focusing on introduction fifth graders to agriculture and its contribution to our live. Approximately 250students from Capitan Schools attended.
Coordinated the planning of NM State 4-H Horse School. 221 4-H members and leaders from New Mexico participated. The objective of the school is to assist 4-H members with their horsemanship skills as well as give the opportunities to learn more about the horse by attending equine related workshops. Leaders participate in sessions as well to take the program to their home counties and develop similar type educational events. Further introduced animal ID act through workshop by New Mexico Livestock Board and career development workshops. Evaluations indicated that audience was very favorable to the new focus. Received sponsorship of school from Horseman’s Supply and New Mexico Livestock Board.
Coordinated the planning of NM State 4-H Livestock Schools. 300 Four H members from Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico participated. The objective of the school is to assist 4-H members in learning about their livestock projects thru a variety of teaching methods. The methods range from hands on sessions to classroom type workshops. 4-H members and leaders learn showmanship, ethics, feeding and overall management of their projects. The educational curriculum is offered to 4-H participants in the following species of beef, dairy cattle, sheep, swine and meat goat. Received sponsorships from Southwest Dairy Producers, Ranch-Way and ADM Feeds.
Coordinated 16 agriculture and natural resources related contests for NM State 4-H Conference. 4-H members from across New Mexico participate in contest events geared to test senior aged 4-H member’s subject member’s knowledge. Over 300 4-H members participated in these related contests.
New Mexico State 4-H program serves as a co-sponsor to the Youth Hunter Education Challenge. Here youth from across the state experience challenge through a series of events to show their combined knowledge and skills in archery, muzzleloader, hunting, and orienteering. This specialist assisted with conducting the contest. Approximately 120 youth participated.
Conducted a safety shooting clinic at the Double H Ranch Conservation Day near Datil, NM. Conservation Day is a multi-agency school field day focusing on introduction fifth graders to wildlife management, waterfowl, water use, fishing, archery and shooting sports. Over 167 students from 7 schools in Catron, Socorro and Valencia Counties attended. Other participating agencies were: NM Game and Fish, US Fish and Wildlife, US Forest Service and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Presented 4-H Shooting Sports clinic at Lincoln County Ag. Days in Capitan, NM. Ag. Day is a multi-agency school field day focusing on introduction fifth graders to agriculture and its contribution to our live. Approximately 250students from Capitan Schools attended.
Coordinated the planning of NM State 4-H Horse School. 221 4-H members and leaders from New Mexico participated. The objective of the school is to assist 4-H members with their horsemanship skills as well as give the opportunities to learn more about the horse by attending equine related workshops. Leaders participate in sessions as well to take the program to their home counties and develop similar type educational events. Further introduced animal ID act through workshop by New Mexico Livestock Board and career development workshops. Evaluations indicated that audience was very favorable to the new focus. Received sponsorship of school from Horseman’s Supply and New Mexico Livestock Board.
Coordinated the planning of NM State 4-H Livestock Schools. 300 Four H members from Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico participated. The objective of the school is to assist 4-H members in learning about their livestock projects thru a variety of teaching methods. The methods range from hands on sessions to classroom type workshops. 4-H members and leaders learn showmanship, ethics, feeding and overall management of their projects. The educational curriculum is offered to 4-H participants in the following species of beef, dairy cattle, sheep, swine and meat goat. Received sponsorships from Southwest Dairy Producers, Ranch-Way and ADM Feeds.
Coordinated 16 agriculture and natural resources related contests for NM State 4-H Conference. 4-H members from across New Mexico participate in contest events geared to test senior aged 4-H member’s subject member’s knowledge. Over 300 4-H members participated in these related contests.
New Mexico State 4-H program serves as a co-sponsor to the Youth Hunter Education Challenge. Here youth from across the state experience challenge through a series of events to show their combined knowledge and skills in archery, muzzleloader, hunting, and orienteering. This specialist assisted with conducting the contest. Approximately 120 youth participated.
Conducted a safety shooting clinic at the Double H Ranch Conservation Day near Datil, NM. Conservation Day is a multi-agency school field day focusing on introduction fifth graders to wildlife management, waterfowl, water use, fishing, archery and shooting sports. Over 167 students from 7 schools in Catron, Socorro and Valencia Counties attended. Other participating agencies were: NM Game and Fish, US Fish and Wildlife, US Forest Service and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Coordinated NM State 4-H Shooting Sports Contest in Raton, NM at the NRA Whittington Center. Senior age 4-H members participated in the event to demonstrate proficiencies in various shooting disciplines. Top placed teams qualified for the national event in June. There were 210 youth competing. (Increase of 35 4-Her’s from 2006.)
Presented 4-H Shooting Sports clinic at Lincoln County Ag. Days in Capitan, NM. Ag. Day is a multi-agency school field day focusing on introduction fifth graders to agriculture and its contribution to our live. Approximately 250students from Capitan Schools attended.
Coordinated the planning of NM State 4-H Horse School. 221 4-H members and leaders from New Mexico participated. The objective of the school is to assist 4-H members with their horsemanship skills as well as give the opportunities to learn more about the horse by attending equine related workshops. Leaders participate in sessions as well to take the program to their home counties and develop similar type educational events. Further introduced animal ID act through workshop by New Mexico Livestock Board and career development workshops. Evaluations indicated that audience was very favorable to the new focus. Received sponsorship of school from Horseman’s Supply and New Mexico Livestock Board.
Coordinated the planning of NM State 4-H Livestock Schools. 300 Four H members from Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico participated. The objective of the school is to assist 4-H members in learning about their livestock projects thru a variety of teaching methods. The methods range from hands on sessions to classroom type workshops. 4-H members and leaders learn showmanship, ethics, feeding and overall management of their projects. The educational curriculum is offered to 4-H participants in the following species of beef, dairy cattle, sheep, swine and meat goat. Received sponsorships from Southwest Dairy Producers, Ranch-Way and ADM Feeds.
Coordinated 16 agriculture and natural resources related contests for NM State 4-H Conference. 4-H members from across New Mexico participate in contest events geared to test senior aged 4-H member’s subject member’s knowledge. Over 300 4-H members participated in these related contests.
New Mexico State 4-H program serves as a co-sponsor to the Youth Hunter Education Challenge. Here youth from across the state experience challenge through a series of events to show their combined knowledge and skills in archery, muzzleloader, hunting, and orienteering. This specialist assisted with conducting the contest. Approximately 120 youth participated.
Conducted a safety shooting clinic at the Double H Ranch Conservation Day near Datil, NM. Conservation Day is a multi-agency school field day focusing on introduction fifth graders to wildlife management, waterfowl, water use, fishing, archery and shooting sports. Over 167 students from 7 schools in Catron, Socorro and Valencia Counties attended. Other participating agencies were: NM Game and Fish, US Fish and Wildlife, US Forest Service and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.