Agricultural News
AFR Promotes Practical Skills with Youth Livestock Handling Competition
Fri, 30 Nov 2012 14:51:13 CST
American Farmers & Ranchers (AFR) will continue their support of Oklahoma youth through the annual Tulsa Farm Show Livestock Handling Skills Competition on Dec. 7. The upcoming competition showcases the skills of young 4-H and FFA members in practical, real-life cattle handling scenarios such as weighing for accurate dosage, vaccinating, and tagging calves in a hydraulic chute.
In an industry where cattle of all ages and backgrounds are sent through the chute, stress-free processing is a primary concern for cattlemen. For young people involved in the process, safety is paramount. Contestants will be judged on skill, accuracy, and efficiency as they sort and process animals through the chute.
The competition emphasizes the application of classroom study to actual agricultural production scenarios. In order to excel, students must take knowledge out of the classroom and apply it in a real world situation.
"The livestock handling competition is one of the most practical competitions we sponsor throughout the year," said AFR President Terry Detrick. "It teaches students how to effectively and efficiently prepare an animal for the pasture while considering the animal's care and welfare, and safety to the individual processing the animal."
Ten teams of three students each qualified in July for the final competition by written test during the Oklahoma State University Field days. The top two teams from each FFA district are eligible to participate in the finals. In addition to scholarships and trophy buckles, the winning team will receive a Priefert calf table for their agricultural education program.
Each year, AFR teams up with Midwest Shows, Inc., to offer the livestock handling program. For more information on the Tulsa Farm Show Livestock Handling Skills Competition or other AFR-sponsored youth events, contact AFR Youth & Education Coordinator Lin Fariss at 405-218-5561 or lfariss@afrmic.com.
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