Beltrami 4‑H livestock committee met to plan youth education

The Beltrami County 4‑H Livestock Program Development Committee met on Monday, Jan. 12, following the county 4‑H council meeting, according to a listing posted by UMN Extension. The committee — commonly called the PDC — is charged with planning and promoting livestock education and events for local 4‑H youth, with a stated focus on leadership, decision-making and animal science learning opportunities.

Committee work centers on shaping programming that supports young people who take on livestock projects, from basic animal care to decisions that affect animal welfare and public safety. Those educational efforts not only prepare youth for competitions and project milestones, they also teach hands-on skills that relate to food safety, proper animal handling and responsible farm stewardship. For families that raise animals for market or show, that training can reduce risks of zoonotic disease, improve meat handling practices, and strengthen the chain of care from barn to table.

The PDC also plays a role in community engagement: by scheduling meetings and events, promoting clinics and coordinating volunteer involvement, the committee helps keep 4‑H programming accessible across Beltrami County. UMN Extension’s listing includes meeting dates and a description of the committee’s role in supporting livestock project education in the county, providing a predictable schedule for families and volunteers who rely on that calendar to plan project timelines.

Public health and equity are intrinsic to this work. Livestock education intersects with sanitary practices and disease prevention, and consistent, well‑resourced programming lowers health risks for participants and the broader community. At the same time, barriers such as transportation, program fees, and uneven outreach can prevent low‑income and rural families from taking full advantage of offerings. Ensuring meeting times, locations and supports are equitable remains central to expanding participation and protecting community health.

For Beltrami County, strong PDC planning helps sustain a pipeline of informed young people who value animal welfare and community responsibility. It also supports local food systems by encouraging safe, science-based animal production practices. Families involved in 4‑H projects should watch UMN Extension’s postings for future meeting dates and opportunities to volunteer or attend educational sessions.

Our two cents? If you have a young person in a livestock project, connect with your county 4‑H council or the PDC after meetings, check UMN Extension for dates, and ask about transportation or financial support so every family can take part.