U of I Extension and JWCC Ag Center Host First Livestock Judging Clinic

The first livestock judging clinic for youth, hosted by University of Illinois Extension and John Wood Community College, was held on Saturday, March 4, at the John Wood Community College Agricultural Education Center, in Baylis, IL. 

 

Over 70 youth attended the entry level workshop, where they first spent time in the classroom, learning basic livestock evaluation skills. Following classroom instruction, the group was divided into sections according to age and experience level and were then given the opportunity to practice those skills on five pens of livestock, including beef, swine and sheep. Members of the JWCC livestock judging team assisted the youth with placing the pens of animals and giving reasons for the placings. 

 

According to event coordinator, Kristin Huls, 4-H Youth Development Educator with U of I Extension, the event met and exceeded the expectations of both organizations. “We are very excited to see this many youth interested in learning about livestock judging. This sets the stage nicely for future opportunities for this group, such as the evolution of 4-H livestock judging SPIN (special interest) clubs, participating in livestock judging contests, and getting youth more involved in the livestock industry in general.”  

 

Youth attending ranged in age from 8-17, and represented Adams, Brown, Hancock, Pike, Schuyler, Cass, Morgan, and Scott counties in Illinois, and Marion County, Missouri. For more information about the livestock judging clinic, or other 4-H programs, please contact Kristin Huls at khuls@illinois.edu or 217-357-2150.

 

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. 

 

ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.