4-H livestock judging workouts set

Washington County 4-H has had both state and national level success in the livestock judging project area. All 4-H'ers are invited to be a part of this project for one or all of the practice sessions.

This project allows livestock exhibitors to learn more about each of the large animal species or to become more of an expert in the species they show. It is a great place for beginning showman to meet others who show. It is a great project for 4-Hers who live in town and aren't able to show livestock but want to work with them and learn more about how livestock is evaluated for market.

Participants gain many life skills through judging. They learn to understand livestock body structure, be an articulate and confident speaker, work with a team, make decisions, and defend decisions with reasons.

Livestock judging workouts have been set on the following dates, at the following locations. All 4-H and FFA members interested in livestock judging are encouraged to attend. No prior experience is needed. This is open to all 4-H members. Workouts begin at 5 p.m. Youth and parents are welcome to attend all, but not required. 4-H Livestock Judging coaches are Dustin Ford, Brandon Freel and Chad Younge.

These workouts are also very valuable to showman as well. Youth can learn more about what the judge expects out of each species in the show ring.

' May 29, 6 p.m. general session. Strongly encouraged to learn what livestock judging is all about, get supplies, start practicing some general scenarios/expectations and also hear from some expert judges at the Extension Office

' June 9 swine - Bruce Kaufman, 3190 295th St, Crawfordsville

' June 16 goat - Art Sweeting, 3026 130th St, Riverside

' June 24 swine, cattle, sheep - Jayme Sieren, 1235 210th St, Keota

' June 30 sheep - Ted and Wendy Greiner, 25514 330th St, Keota

' July 7 heifers - Lyle and Stephanie Sexton, 1752 Willow Ave, Ainsworth

' July 15 Livestock Judging Contest, 12:30 p.m. at the Washington County Fair. Check-in at the main show ring.

For more information, contact the Washington County Extension Office, 319-653-4811.