By Morgan Watts

Rowan Cooperative Extension

It’s a known fact that Rowan County is noted for agriculture throughout the state.

You’ve probably seen in past articles just how great and dedicated our youth involved in agriculture are. They are a true representation of what agriculture can do for our youth.

I am always striving to offer new programs for the kids in our county to get them more involved in agriculture and the community. In 2017, Rowan County Cooperative Extension is starting a 4-H Livestock Judging Team. Livestock judging is an amazing opportunity for youth within the county. While studying these animals, youth learn public speaking skills, critical thinking skills and teamwork.

With Livestock judging, youth will learn how to properly evaluate breeding and market animals. The species they will learn about are lambs, goats, hogs and cattle. They will learn the different body parts of these animals. Students will also learn how to give a set of oral reasons as to why they place a class the way they did.

Interested participants must be between the ages of 9-19, as of Jan. 1. They must also be a member of 4-H in Rowan County or willing to join. An interest meeting will be held on Jan. 17 at the Rowan County Cooperative Extension Office at 6 p.m.

If you have any questions or if you need any more information before then, please contact Morgan Watts, livestock agent, at 704-216-8970 or stop by the Rowan County Cooperative Extension Office at 2727 Old Concord Road.