Now that the Polk County Youth Fair and Agri-Fest are over, don’t mistakenly think the excitement is ending. Central Florida Youth in Agriculture’s Youth Livestock Showcase & Sale is taking place March 20-23 at the Polk County Agricultural Center in Bartow.
Livestock and ag are positively booming in Polk County, and CFYIA is open to a greater number of youth. It provides all kids — regardless of whether they go to public school, private school, or are home-schooled — an opportunity to get involved in ag.
The organization, now in its fourth year, was formed to welcome kids who don’t come from ag backgrounds and who aren’t already involved in FFA or 4-H. In addition, the group also accepts children as young as 5, whereas the Youth Fair requires that participants be at least 8 years old.
Since its inception, the organization has continually expanded its offerings. Last year, it created an adaptive showmanship class for youth with special needs. This year, it has introduced ag mechanics and fabrication.
To learn more about CFYIA, go to www.youthinagriculture.com.