Local eighth graders recently gained hands-on experience in the agricultural industry during the first-ever Billy Goat Hill Fatted Calf Field Day. The event, a partnership between the Todd County Extension Service, 4-H, and Todd County Middle School, targeted students transitioning into high school agriculture programs.
The morning began at Weathers Beef Farm with four educational rotations. Christian County Ag Agent Matt Futrell covered animal nutrition, Robbie Weathers discussed birth-to-finish production, Todd County Ag Agent Traci Johnson focused on conservation and forages, and UK specialist Kevin Laurent taught animal health and vaccinations. WEKT provided live coverage, interviewing participants and coordinators throughout the morning.
Following a farm-raised beef lunch provided by Billy Goat Hill, students engaged in a 4-H Beef Skillathon at the Extension Office. The afternoon featured presentations on nutrition by Jill Harris and farm-to-table processing by Chris Milam of Hampton Meats. The day concluded with a leadership session led by Clayton Miller.
Supported by Todd County Central FFA mentors, organizers credited Robbie Weathers and various community volunteers for making this inaugural event a success for the county’s future agricultural leaders.
Story information provided by Todd County 4-H Agent LeeAnn McCuiston, photos by Caitlin Brooks and John Morgan Francis
