Abby Carlberg was recently accepted into the New York State 4-H Livestock Ambassador Program.

Abby Carlberg, a 10-year member of Chautauqua County 4-H, was one of 10 statewide candidates to be accepted into the state 4-H Youth Livestock Ambassador Program.

The program is designed to introduce participants to the many career paths available in livestock, from animal genetics and nutrition to meat processing, marketing, and more. The program consists of four two-day retreats to visit farms, feed mills, fiber mills, and processing facilities across New York state.

Youth Livestock Ambassadors will be exposed to many careers in livestock, including animal production, veterinary science, animal nutrition, meat and fiber processing and retail and marketing skills.

Along the way, Youth Livestock Ambassadors also develop skills in communication, leadership, critical thinking, public speaking and teamwork. Most of the cost of the program is paid for by the state 4-H Foundation and Northeast Agricultural Education Foundation.