Chatham County Youth Livestock team takes on clinics

By Kristina Britt

Raleigh, NC – Members of the Chatham County Youth Livestock Team traveled to Raleigh this week to participate in the NC State Skillathon Clinic on Tuesday and the Livestock Judging Clinic on Wednesday. These all-day events provided the members with incredible learning opportunities. Members traveled over the NC State Swine Unit to observe farrowing sows and learn about tools related to the swine industry, record keeping, and farrowing behaviors. Members also were able to view several cow reproductive tracts and learn more about artificial insemination. Members learned about fecal egg count testing and internal parasites affecting sheep and goats. Members learned more about beef quality assurance and were able to practice giving vaccines using different methods.

During the livestock judging clinic, members listened to experts discuss judging each species. After going through each species, members participated in a mock judging competition for groups of cattle, sheep, and goats. The team did extremely well, especially since this was their first time judging for most of the team. The team is looking forward to the 4-H State Competition in July!