DeKalb County 4-H members recently traveled to the Tennessee Livestock Center in Murfreesboro to compete in the Central Region 4-H Livestock Judging competition. Participants included Kayla Belk, Caitlyn Lawrence, Wyatt Martin, and John Puckett. There was tough competition with around 350 competitors from surrounding counties. Caitlyn placed 21st overall and the team placed 20th.
Livestock judging allows young people to develop decision-making skills related to the evaluation of meat animals. They also learn more about the livestock industry. So, how do you “judge” livestock animals exactly? 4-H members learn how to assess the conformation, or body structure, and muscle of different breeds of beef cattle, sheep, goats, and swine in order to know which animals would be best in a breeding program or would make the most profit in a market situation. They also learn how to read and use performance data and genetic information to assist in the selection of breeding livestock. Eight total classes of animals are judged at the contest. 9th-12th grade 4-H members must also be able to explain verbally why they placed the class the way they did as an added challenge.
DeKalb County was well represented at this very competitive event. If you are interested in learning more about livestock judging, or any other 4-H event, please call 615-597-4945 or email lfuson2@utk.edu.
Photo Captions
TOP PHOTO: Livestock Team: DeKalb County 4-H members competed at the Central Region Livestock Judging Contest: Wyatt Martin, John
Puckett, Kayla Bek, and Caitlyn Lawrence
BOTTOM PHOTO: John Puckett studies a market goat class at the Central Region 4-H Livestock Judging Contest.
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