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Two youth agriculture livestock training opportunities are being offered by the WVU Extension Service. The trainings are recommended for 4-H and FFA members with livestock projects and for the adults who work with them.
The first session, "Blue Ribbon Kids through Showmanship and Quality Assurance," is for WVU Extension personnel, agriculture education teachers, 4-H volunteer leaders, fair board members and livestock superintendents. Dr. Clint Rusk, chair of the animal science department at Oklahoma State University and longtime coordinator of the National 4-H Livestock Judging event, will be the featured presenter. Topics include making livestock exhibitions positive youth development experiences, working effectively with fair boards, establishing and reviewing the rules and understanding the ethics that must accompany youth livestock events.
This session runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 2, at WVU Jackson's Mill in Weston. There is no cost to attend the workshop and lunch will be provided to those who register in advance.
The second event is an overnight retreat for 4-H and FFA members who have livestock projects. It begins at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 2, and ends at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3. Friday evening's sessions will cover animal handling, animal welfare and public perceptions. On Saturday, participants will attend species-focused sessions on beef, small ruminants or swine, and learn about nutrition, selection, evaluation and showmanship. Alan Duttlinger, research and development specialist with the Indiana Packers Corporation will be working with the swine section of the event.
For the two-day event, the cost is $25 for participants registered prior to Oct. 12. This covers meals and breaks. Participants can add dorm lodging for an additional $10. After Oct. 12, costs for registration increases to $40 for meals and breaks and $15 for dorm lodging.
For more information or to register for the event, contact Daisy Fryman at daisy.fryman@mail.wvu.edu or call the WVU Extension Service Calhoun County office at 304-354-6332 or the Gilmer County office at 304-462-7061.
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