By Scout Nelson
South Dakota’s Youth Livestock Literacy program helps young livestock exhibitors build knowledge, responsibility, and practical skills connected to raising animals for food production. The program began in 2022 to expand youth education beyond traditional quality assurance training while keeping quality assurance as a required foundation.
The main goal of the program is to help youth understand the importance of producing safe and wholesome food. Young exhibitors learn that livestock producers play an important role in maintaining consumer trust in the food supply.
Quality assurance training teaches safe animal handling, proper care practices, and responsible decision-making. These lessons support the values promoted by national programs such as Beef Quality Assurance, Pork Quality Assurance, Sheep Safety and Quality Assurance, and Dairy Animal Care and Quality Assurance.
Participation in the Youth Livestock Literacy program is required for youth who plan to exhibit animals at approved events. The process includes several clear steps. Youth first enroll in 4HOnline and register their projects before the deadline. They must identify their animals using approved methods and submit DNA samples when required. Participants also complete at least one certified Youth Livestock Literacy event by the stated deadline. If youth attend a program outside their home county, they need to make sure their county office receives confirmation of completion.
For those who choose the online YQCA option, youth submit a completion certificate to their county Extension Office. Another important step is signing the Livestock Integrity Pledge, which confirms the youth’s commitment to ethical animal care and responsible exhibition practices. This pledge is often completed during fair registration and may follow county-specific deadlines.
Overall, the program supports youth development by combining education, accountability, and hands-on learning. By completing these steps, participants gain valuable skills in livestock care while understanding their role in food safety and public trust. The Youth Livestock Literacy program continues to strengthen agricultural education by preparing young exhibitors to become responsible leaders in the livestock industry.
Photo Credit: 4-h
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Goats & Sheep