Florida 4-H Hall of Fame

Lester W. Kalch

Lester W. Kalch, Retired Extension Poultryman, was involved in 4-H for more than 56 years and he loved every minute of it. He conducted state poultry programs for 28 years in 35 counties. He developed the 4-H chick embryology projects and the poultry barbeque project. He contributed to the 4-H program by judging contests and providing training programs for youth. As a state extension specialist he coached two national champion poultry judging teams and was a member of the national contest committee. He said, "4-H had the most positive impact on my life when I was awarded a trip to the State 4-H Short Course at the University of Florida in 1939. At that time I did not know that UF existed. Getting to know the University of Florida and faculty put me on a positive track for the rest of my life." Mr. Kalch is often a guest speaker at Rotary, Kiwanis and 4-H clubs throughout the state of Florida spreading positive messages about 4-H.  Hard work and dedication have paid off for Kalch, who will always be known for his perseverance in the 4-H program.