IMPACT OF 4-H REPLACEMENT BEEF HEIFER DEVELOPMENT CONTEST
Extension Education
Dean Jousan
Extension 4-H Livestock Specialist
Mississippi State University
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Abstract
\r\n The 4-H Replacement Beef Heifer Development Contest was designed to provide a real-world experience for youth interested in raising beef cattle. Over 1,500 Mississippi youth annually participate in junior livestock shows, but much more work is involved in developing beef heifers that will generate income over their productive lifetime. Youth chose three heifers that fit their cattle program and submitted information on each animal’s age, weight and breed-type along with an estimated starting value of each heifer and goals for the contest. The 10-month contest challenged youth to make critical decisions regarding the daily well-being of their heifers; to keep accurate records regarding nutrition, health-related expenses and breeding decisions; and to manage their proposed budget versus actual expenses. A panel of judges consisting of Extension specialists, cattle producers and industry representatives scored each youth’s record book, appraised each heifer, and discussed the presentation of each contestant while youth defended their management decisions. Awards for the contest, solicited from county cattlemen’s associations, industry groups and individuals, included a livestock trailer, laptop, and numerous scholarships. In addition, youth received free admission to cattle artificial insemination school sponsored by the Mississippi State University Extension Service. Each year’s winner presented their talk to beef producers at the Mississippi Cattlemen’s Association Annual Convention. Twenty-one youth have competed in the initial three years of this contest where they have learned about the cattle industry, established contacts with industry leaders that will benefit them in future endeavors, and shared their experiences with fellow cattle producers.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: F.D. Jousan, R.D. Higdon
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Jousan, F. Associate Extension Professor, 4-H Livestock Specialist, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 39762
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Higdon, R. Area Extension Agent IV, Mississippi State University Extension Service, Mississippi, 39355