A feature on the competitive nature of livestock showing for the youth that participate. After spending a few weeks in the show and commercial livestock industry, my understanding of the industry has shifted drastically. The focus on enriching the youth is incredible. There’s a strong desire to foster independence, creativity and all-around capability in children starting early. I chatted with many youngsters over coloring pages and temporary tattoos at the BioZyme® Inc. booth. I […]
Mark That Card: Hampshire Barrows
Thank you Lake Land College Livestock Judging Team for providing placings and officials for this class. Placing: 4-2-1-3Cuts: 2-5-2 I sorted the Hampshire Barrows 4213. I think both barrows up top capture the basic market hog fundamentals, but I’m personally drawn to 4’s elite build quality. His relaxed blade angle and correct hip and hind leg allow […]
Ovine and Bovine and Porcine, Oh My!
A deep dive into my experience at livestock shows coming from a non-agriculture background. As a Midwesterner, agriculture is not far removed from my daily life. My dad is in the produce industry, and my family has ties to small farms in Missouri and Oklahoma. I can’t even run an errand without passing corn fields, grazing cattle or at the very least, […]
Mark That Card: Wether Dams
Thank you Harrell Club Lambs for providing placings and officials for this class. Placing: 4-3-2-1Cuts: 3-5-3 I like the wether dams 4321. There’s an awfully good one to win in 4, and I think it all starts with her skeletal build. She’s so stout structured and correct on her feet and legs, her spine is perfectly level, […]
Mark That Card: Hereford Heifers
Placing: 1-4-2-3Cuts: 2-5-2 I like the Hereford heifers 1423. The group is quick to sort into two pairs, and amongst the initial duo of high caliber females, I personally like the added look of quality and balance in the 1 heifer to sort over the cow power found in 4. The lighter red heifer is […]
Considerations for Summer Hauling
Young livestock exhibitors spend countless hours, days and weeks getting their livestock “dialed in” for summer shows. This year, due to COVID-19, they’ve had a little extra time to work with their animals since numerous late spring shows have been cancelled. As some states begin to open up, while others remain closed, exhibitors are hauling […]