Statewide 4-H Master Goat Volunteer Training Slated in August
 
Writer: Tim W. McAlavy, (806) 746-6101, email: t-mcalavy@tamu.edu
Contact: Galen Chandler, Kalico Karr, (940) 552-9941; Kyle Miller, (940) 538-5042

WEATHERFORD – 4-H leaders statewide have an opportunity to broaden their skills and learn more
about goats at an August 15-17 master goat volunteer training, courtesy of Texas Cooperative Extension.

4-H is the youth development and leadership component of the Texas Cooperative Extension, part of the
Texas A&M University System’s Agriculture Program.

The training is designed to update volunteers with the latest advanced technical methods and subject matter
knowledge pertinent to goats and goat projects.

“These volunteers will in turn teach 4-H goat project members and other volunteers in their home county.
In doing so, they support 4-H members and provide learning opportunities for clubs, 4-Hers, parents and
other volunteers,” said Galen Chandler, Texas Cooperative Extension district agriculture director for the
Rolling Plains.

The first day of the training will cover topics such as: the value of 4-H projects; master volunteers; 4-H
goat projects; and how to host effective club meetings and activities.

The second day will feature topics such as: facilities and environment; project visitation checklists; sheep
and goat method demonstrations; record keeping and record books; overview of the goat industry;
scholarships and other opportunities; as well as the internet and other curriculum resources.

The third day of traning will focus on goat-specific topics, such as: basic genetics; selection for breeding;
feeding and nutrition; basic health considerations; carcass evaluation and meat grading; and preparing for
shows and showmanship.

This statewide training is open to any 4-H volunteer/leader in Texas, but each participant must be approved
by their local county Extension agent through several agreement forms. Participation is limited to 60
persons, Chandler noted.

Participation costs $100 per person before July 25th, and $125 per person thereafter, according to Kalico
Karr, Extension 4-H and youth specialist for the Rolling Plains. The registration fee includes course
materials, presenter costs, four meals and breaks – but not lodging. Checks for registration should be
payable to: District 3 4-H Council Fund; at PO Box 2159, Vernon, TX 76385.

The headquarters hotel for this event is the La Quinta inn (817-594-4481).

For more information on this statewide training opportunity contact Chandler or Karr at (940) 552-9941;
Kyle Miller, Clay County Extension agent, at (940) 538-5042; or your local county Extension office.

For more information on Texas 4-H, including its history and opportunities for volunteers, visit the Web
site at http://texas4-h.tamu.edu .