By Scout Nelson
University of Minnesota Extension highlighting an upcoming educational event designed for youth participating in the Goodhue County meat goat project. The event aims to provide practical learning experiences about goat production, meat quality, and livestock markets.
The Meat Goat Project Education Day will take place on Friday, April 3, 2026. Many school districts have the day off, allowing students involved in the project to participate in the event. Activities will begin at 8:30 a.m. and are expected to conclude around noon.
The event will start at Millville Valley Meats in Millville, Minnesota. At this location, youth will learn about goat meat cuts, meat quality, and different goat meat products. This portion of the program helps participants understand how livestock raised on farms are processed into food products for consumers.
After the first session, participants will travel to the Gustafson Engineered Solutions Shop. There, Jason and Missy Hoffman will lead a presentation on goat feeding and nutrition. Their session will explain how proper feeding practices influence animal growth, meat quality, and overall production results.
Another presentation will be delivered by Kurt Tesmer from Tesmer Valley Livestock. He will discuss consumer demand, livestock market trends, and general information about the goat industry. This session will help youth understand how livestock production connects to food markets and consumer preferences.
The education day will conclude with a food sampling activity. Participants will have the opportunity to taste grilled goat burgers, giving them direct experience with goat meat as a food product.
The program is designed specifically for Goodhue County youth involved in the meat goat project and is offered free of charge. Participants must complete a registration form in advance of attendance.
The University of Minnesota Extension also states that it is committed to providing equal opportunities for participation in its programs. Individuals who require accommodations for disabilities are encouraged to contact the event organizer at least two weeks before the event, so arrangements can be made.
The event will be held at Millville Valley Meats, located at 61301 County Road 11 in Millville, Minnesota. For additional information, participants can contact Aly Kloeckner, Extension Educator, at 4-H Youth Development at schw1348@umn.edu, or 651-385-3100.
This educational program provides young livestock producers with valuable knowledge about meat production, animal nutrition, and agricultural markets while supporting hands-on learning. For registration complete the form by clicking the given link https://docs.google.com/.
Photo by: pexels-pavel-bondarenko
Categories: Minnesota, Livestock, Goats & Sheep