This week is National 4-H week and the program continues to grow rapidly in South Dakota. SDSU 4-H Youth Development Director Peter Nielson says their enrollment is up for the fourth consecutive year at over 9100 members.

He says the numbers are even more impressive if you count non-members that still participate in the activities of the organization.

Nielson says reduced budgets at the national and state levels have presented some challenges for 4-H programs across South Dakota and other states. He says despite that most people realize the value of 4-H.

Nielson also credits the success of the 4-H program to the 2100 certified volunteer leaders.