Beltrami County 4 H elects leaders, strengthens youth livestock programs
The Beltrami County 4 H Livestock Project Development Committee held a special meeting Monday evening to elect officers and set leadership for the coming year. The vote will shape educational programming in livestock science for local youth, with implications for community animal health, food safety, and equitable access to agricultural learning.
On Monday evening, December 8, the Beltrami County 4 H Livestock Project Development Committee met at the Beltrami County 4 H Building, 7223 Fairgrounds Road NW in Bemidji, to elect officers and review priorities for youth livestock programming. The one hour meeting drew 4 H youth and adult volunteers who take part in livestock projects across the county.
The committee exists to plan, promote and implement educational programs in livestock science for 4 H youth enrolled in livestock projects, their families and 4 H leaders. Its work emphasizes youth leadership, animal science skills, community education, decision making, sportsmanship and mentorship. Electing new officers places people in roles that will guide selection of trainings, clinics and outreach that affect how young people learn animal care and responsible production.
Local public health and food security are interwoven with these educational choices. Hands on animal science training can strengthen disease prevention practices, improve animal welfare and reduce risks of zoonotic transmission. It also supports safer local food systems and gives youth practical knowledge that can influence family farm practices and emergency preparedness in rural communities. Ensuring that programming reaches youth from diverse backgrounds will be important to reduce disparities in access to agricultural education and future job pathways.
The committee operates under the University of Minnesota Extension commitment to equal access. If you are a 4 H youth or an adult volunteer who needs an accommodation, contact Ashley Rohr at [email protected]. The office asks that accommodation requests be made at least two weeks before events when possible.
Members set additional meeting dates through 2026 to maintain continuity in planning. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for Monday, January 12, 2026 following the 6 p.m. council meeting, Monday, March 9, 2026 following the 6 p.m. council meeting, Monday, May 11, 2026 following the 6 p.m. council meeting, Monday, July 13, 2026 following the 6 p.m. council meeting, Monday, September 14, 2026 following the 6 p.m. council meeting, and Monday, November 9, 2026 following the 6 p.m. council meeting.
Participation in the committee offers 4 H youth leadership experience and helps the community shape how livestock education supports health, safety and opportunity across Beltrami County. For questions about membership or upcoming agendas, contact Ashley Rohr at [email protected].
