The removal of pigpens at the Josephine County Fairgrounds on Sunday has sparked controversy, highlighting ongoing tensions between the Oregon State University (OSU) 4H program and the Josephine County Commissioners. This incident follows the commissioners’ recent decision to defund OSU 4H, setting a deadline for the organization to vacate by July 26.
Community members expressed concerns about the timing and manner of the removal, which took place early in the morning. Many felt this was an attempt to avoid public scrutiny. Adding to the confusion, there were disputes over the ownership of the pigpens and other property at the fairgrounds.
One perspective suggests that OSU 4H did not have the right to remove the pigpens since the property technically belongs to the county. Supporters of this view argue that the removal was necessary to meet the county-imposed deadline. However, critics contend that the removal was handled unprofessionally and without proper communication. They believe a simple phone call to clarify ownership and coordinate the removal would have prevented much of the ensuing drama. Many community members and 4H participants felt blindsided by the sudden action, perceiving it as a petty move in an already contentious situation.
A local 4H leader voiced frustration: “The way this was done was completely unnecessary. We understand the county’s position, but there are ways to handle these things that show respect for the people involved. A phone call could have saved a lot of heartache.”
Amidst the controversy, efforts are being made to mediate and resolve the issues. Leaders from both sides are engaging in discussions to ensure a more amicable resolution. There is a shared recognition that, despite the current tensions, the focus should remain on the future of youth agricultural programs in Josephine County.
Fairgrounds representatives claimed that the pigpens were fundraised within the community through the 4H organization as a nonprofit and then donated to them. However, without proof of ownership and donation, the Sheriffs allowed the 4H association to leave with the pens.
In response to the controversy, the OSU Extension of Josephine County and 4H released a statement:
“We have received questions about swine pens being removed from the Josephine County fairgrounds by 4-H volunteers. This is not part of OSU Extension’s planned closeout of local operations due to loss of county funding, and not occurring as part of directed 4-H volunteer service.
We have been in communication with our partners from the fairgrounds and fair board, and reached out to Josephine County 4-H Association leadership, to understand the situation. We have confirmed that pens were purchased with funds from the Josephine County 4-H Association (a separate organization), and we have encouraged that pens remain in place through the Josephine County Fair in early August.
OSU Extension’s commitment remains to work with our county partners to support a positive experience for all youth at the Josephine County Fair.
We are also committed to closing out local operations as smoothly as possible. This includes providing information that may assist our county partners—including the 4-H association and Josephine County fairgrounds—in clarifying questions about items used to support youth livestock activities at the fairgrounds.”
Despite the removal of the pens, the Josephine County Fair is expected to run as normal, with help from Jackson County providing pens for the swine at the fair. The incident underscores the need for better communication and cooperation between the involved parties. Moving forward, the goal is to ensure that youth agricultural programs continue to thrive in the county, even amid administrative and logistical challenges.
