Keokuk County 4-H members compete at Iowa State Livestock Judging Contest

Four Keokuk County 4-H members represented the county at the Iowa State University Livestock Judging Contest held Monday, Jan. 5, in Ames. Madison Fry, Izzy Heisdorffer, Jake Clarahan, and Sawyer Cason spent the day at the Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center evaluating a variety of livestock classes alongside college-level competitors.

Classes included led heifers, loose feedlot cattle, loose bulls, ewes, does, and market hogs. The contest was designed primarily for college students preparing for the National Western Stock Show, giving youth participants a unique opportunity to experience a high-level judging environment. While 4-H and FFA members did not give oral reasons and no awards or critiques were provided, the experience offered valuable, hands-on learning.

Competing against 48 total teams, the Keokuk County group placed 12th overall — an impressive finish in such a competitive field.

“These opportunities are what 4-H is all about,” said Ashley Yedlik, Keokuk County 4-H. “Our members went up against some fierce competitors in college-level livestock judging classes, challenged themselves, and learned in a real-world setting. I’m especially proud that they chose to spend the last no-school day of winter break growing through 4-H and representing our county with pride.”

Opportunities like this allow youth to strengthen decision-making, critical thinking, and confidence — hallmarks of the 4-H “learning by doing” philosophy. Keokuk County 4-H is proud of Madison, Izzy, Jake, and Sawyer for representing the county and embracing this educational experience.