Young Farmers

Empowering Youth, Feeding Communities: The Competitive Food Drive Transforming County Fairs

Wed, 13 May 2026 21:38:08 GMT

What began as a simple challenge to county junior fair boards five years ago has grown into one of the most impactful youth-led initiatives.

Fight the Hunger, Stock the Trailer was launched by Farm Credit Mid-America in 2021 as a way to support local food pantries and give back to communities. Junior fair boards compete to collect as many food donations as possible, with top counties earning cash prizes to reinvest in local programs. The competition takes place during county fairs — a time when food pantry shelves often run low.

What started as a grassroots effort in Ohio spread to Indiana the following year and has now mobilized thousands of young people, strengthened dozens of food banks and provided relief to families facing food insecurity. In just five years, the program has collected more than 1.6 million lb. of food, proving the power of youth leadership and community collaboration.

How does Fight the Hunger, Stock the Trailer work?

Accept the Challenge: Connect with your county fair leaders and let Farm Credit Mid-America know you want to compete.
Register: Indiana and Ohio .
Develop a Plan: Use your creativity to inspire community members to make donations and find ways to raise money to purchase food for your trailer.
Download toolkits: Indiana Toolkit | Ohio Toolkit These toolkits are packed with banners, flyers, signage, social media graphics and many helpful tools.
Collect Items: During your fair, collect food items and place them in your trailer.
Donate: When your fair concludes, weigh all of your items, donate to a local food bank and report your success to Farm Credit Mid-America.
Celebrate: Let your community know what you accomplished; top donors will be awarded additional winnings.

For more information, visit Farm Credit Mid-America’s Community Investment website.

Why Livestock Judging Is the Ultimate Character-Building Sport for Youth

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:47:46 GMT

When Grace showed up to livestock judging practice for the first time, I instantly got a good vibe from this freckle-cheeked third grader. She just couldn’t stop smiling.

Later that evening of our first practice of the season, I asked all the juniors (3rd through 8th grade) to write down their goals for the season. The goals ranged from getting a 50 in a contest to a five-point plan for judging success.

But when I got to Grace’s goal, it stopped me in my tracks.

“To be amazing.”

I’ve read through a lot of judging goals over the years, but this was a first. In a world obsessed with winning, Grace reminded me of something even more important.

The Long Game of Livestock Judging

Looking at Grace, I saw the beginning of a journey I am currently watching my own son conclude. As he nears the end of his 4-H judging career, I’ve realized that my husband and I haven’t just been coaching him on how to rank a class of gilts; we’ve been coaching him on how to navigate life.

Maybe I am being overly sentimental as our son nears the end of his 4-H livestock judging experience. As I reflect back, I’m honored by the unique (and sometimes challenging) seat I’ve had to watch his progress. I remind myself that while the wins that can happen in livestock judging sure feel good and keep us going back for more, it’s really about something so much bigger.

Hunter Shike judging at Black Hawk College East Campus Judging Contest

(Faith Lortie)

The Intangible Advantage

It’s easy to pinpoint the skills kids learn from livestock judging such as decision-making, evaluation, attention to detail and critical thinking. But what is even more valuable is how livestock judging helps young people develop a mindset that doesn’t go away when the final card is turned in.

Here are three ways I’ve watched this “sport” build character.

1. Turning Disadvantages into Drive

One of my favorite examples of determination comes from a boy who had no livestock experience before he joined the team. No one could deny he was at a disadvantage because he didn’t have a show pig or a steer in the barn to go look at and study. Everything he was being taught was initially done by watching video classes during practice. I wondered if he would stick with it because he came from a different place than the other judges. I was pleasantly surprised to see how this disadvantage fueled his determination to learn and absorb as much as he could every practice. He’s now in his third year of judging and has been at the top of the pack all season. He reminds me to look at disadvantages as opportunities to grow. Livestock judging is a great equalizer. It doesn’t matter if you have a million-dollar barn or a video screen; it only matters how much you are willing to “see.

2. Balancing Perspective with Belief

I’m a bit of a stickler when it comes to the topic of humility. I find it challenging to build confidence and humility at the same time. But there’s no question that livestock judging teaches it, whether you want to learn it or not. As much as we want kids to walk up to a class or into the reasons room with as much confidence as possible, we also want them to remember judging livestock is subjective. We must be able to consider others’ perspectives and not just center in on our own. I’m grateful for how judging livestock provides a training ground to help students gain open-mindedness and a desire for continual learning. Judging forces a child to stand firm in their conviction while simultaneously acknowledging that an official might see the world differently. When their confidence can lie in their ability to learn versus their ability to always be right, something powerful happens.

3. The Slow Work of Success

The transition between being a junior who places classes and answers questions to being a senior who places classes and talks oral reasons is tough. It’s one thing to answer questions about a class; it’s another to stand in front of an official and present a 1.5-minute case for why you placed the class the way you did. It takes time to hone that skill. I remember how challenging it was for our son to go from winning the state contest as a junior to struggling through his first few contests giving oral reasons. Good placings mattered, but beginning oral reasons scores kept him out of the top group. We had to remind him that becoming skilled in the reasons room simply takes time. Seeing him achieve his goal of winning oral reasons in a contest this past year remind me that good things do come eventually if you allow yourself to be molded and shaped by the less-than-great moments that are sure to happen along the way.

(Faith Lortie)

The livestock industry doesn’t just need more high-point individuals, it needs more people with the mindset that judging builds. To every coach and parent feeling the weight of this task: Keep going. You aren’t just teaching them how to rank livestock. You are building the leaders our industry desperately needs. Focus on the character, and the results will take care of themselves.

I don’t know if “Amazing Grace” will win the state contest this year. But as I watch her smile through every missed placing and every tough set of questions, I realize she’s already achieved her goal. She is amazing—not because of her card, but because of her character. And that is something we need to talk about more often.

The Identity Trap: What You Do is Not Who You Are

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:56:52 GMT

I will never forget how helpless I felt on Jan. 24 when I watched my son stumble across the wrestling mat. He took two major blows to the head during a match – a sound I could hear from the top of the gym bleachers. As he struggled to orient himself, I felt like I was going to throw up.

In a matter of seconds, he was on his back convulsing with trainers at his side trying to take off his shoulder brace so he could breathe. Sweat poured off his body in a way no workout ever could have done.

I held my hand over my mouth and wailed, watching nearly 13 years of hard work, sacrifice and commitment get carried off the mat on a stretcher. I knew in my heart that this was not a “shake it off” moment as they raced him to the emergency room by ambulance.

By God’s grace, the X-ray of his neck was clear. He never lost consciousness. He answered his questions correctly. Minus the uncomfortable neck brace, within an hour, our son seemed a little drowsy, but normal. We were able to leave Loyola Hospital in Chicago later that day and made it home through the snow that night. With time and rest, he was expected to make a full recovery, but it just wasn’t enough time for his brain to heal to allow him to wrestle in his senior year state series starting a couple of days later.

As a parent, this was a pretty excruciating moment because for thousands of days, I watched this kid commit his whole heart to this sport – a three-time state qualifier who overcame a hip avulsion fracture suffered during his sophomore year during the state tournament, a car accident at the end of his junior season and a torn labrum in his shoulder just weeks after his senior season began. It seemed like all of that was enough. And yet the disappointment was not over.

If I can be honest, I’m angry. Not at anyone in particular, but I’m just angry at the way it played out for him. There is nothing worse than watching your kid hurt and not be able to fix it.

The following weekend of regionals was hard to sit through, though we absolutely wanted the best for his teammates. At church the next day, some friends we hadn’t seen in a while came up and talked to our son. I overheard him say, “Wrestling is something I do, it’s not who I am.”

Parallel Paths: From the Mat to the Ranch

Fast forward a few days to the Top Producer Summit where I listened to a powerful panel. Leaders of top companies in agriculture weighed in on a variety of thought-provoking topics, but one message stood out to me.

“All too often, we confuse what we do with who we are,” said Lamar Steiger with The 808 Ranch. “As farmers and ranchers, we are our job. It’s our identity. That was my problem as a young man.”

Steiger grew up on a dairy. High interest rates in the late 1970s made farming particularly challenging. When he was in his 20s, their family lost the dairy. After working so hard to make that operation work, Steiger took this as a deep personal failure.

“There was nothing I could do to save the dairy because outside forces were at hand. But it’s so hard for farmers and ranchers to separate that,” he said. “Looking back, I had depression for quite a while after that, but we didn’t talk about that then.”

When he was in his mid-30s, Steiger attempted suicide.

“I had to be removed totally from my working life and start completely over,” he shared. “I learned the hard way how to separate my identity from my role.”

Steiger said it wasn’t pretty, but he is grateful for how this time of his life changed him.

“When you come to the end of yourself, you look for something bigger and better. That’s worked out really good for me,” he said. “Being a rancher is cool to me, but it’s not who I am. I’m Lamar. I try my best and I fail. We have great successes and then we have some things that just don’t work out. But it’s not all my responsibility.”

There’s something so humbling about another person vulnerably sharing their story. We can learn so much from each other. All it takes is a willingness to share your story. Left unshared, our stories may only change us. But by sharing, we can help each other find our way through the very real burdens of life.

A Truth Worth Holding Onto

It’s easy to confuse your identity with what you do because it becomes such a big part of our lives. As another Shike kid closes one chapter and gets ready to start the next, I find myself confusing who I am with my role as a mom. I’m not sure what life looks like without Saturday wrestling tournaments and late nights posting photos of our wrestlers.

As I sat there at Top Producer Summit, I kept hearing my son’s voice in my head saying, “Wrestling is something I do, it’s not who I am.”

He’s only 17 and has a lot of life to live, but I’m grateful he recognizes this truth. I know there will be times when he will be tempted to measure his worth by his performance. But I believe when we get honest and share these stories, we can help one another avoid the mistake of confusing what we do with who we are.

Stock Show Kids Share What They Learned This Summer

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 18:55:50 GMT

Youth stock show exhibitors say there are a lot of things they love about showing livestock, but one of the answers heard time and time again is that they love the opportunity it provides to spend time with family and friends.

“In sports, your family’s all split up,” says Trevor Rhoads, exhibitor of the Grand Champion Barrow at the 2025 Illinois State Fair. “But with livestock shows, you’re always with your family. They’re always there and always helping you. It’s just good to be together as a family at these shows.”

Kastin Campbell, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Lamb, agrees. He thinks it’s also fun to try to win.

“You don’t just show up on show day and show your animal,” Rhoads adds. “It takes a lot of hard work and effort at home. The banners, ribbons and checks are a result of that. What you put into it is what you get out of it.”

For Lily Grobosky, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Goat, that’s her favorite part. She enjoys working with them at home and getting them ready to go into the ring.

Exhibitors from the 2025 Illinois State Fair share reflections and perspectives on their summer showing livestock.

What do you think is the most important lesson that you’ve learned at the State Fair this year?

“Hard work will pay off.” – Cash Kinsella, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Market Hog

“I’ve learned to be patient and kind to people when they ask questions, but also to take your time and talk to people and not be rushed in your responses.” – Kaolin Lewis, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Steer

“Keep grinding at what you do. Regardless of what you’ve achieved or what you haven’t achieved, keep trying and keep trying for more. I like building a connection with an animal, having that responsibility of taking care of them day-in and day-out, and learning from others along the way.” – Hunter Shike, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Barrow

“To be humble and be kind.” – Kastin Campbell, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Lamb

What do you wish people knew about showing livestock?

“All the hours that are spent in the barns during the week – whether it’s after practice, after school or all day in the summer. It’s a building process – you don’t just show up and win.” – Maddox Horner, exhibitor of the Grand Champion Market Goat

“It’s a lot of hard work. We put in countless hours waking up really early to walk in the morning, then you’re out there all day, tanning, skin care, and then out late at night. There’s a lot of work that goes into it, which can sometimes go unnoticed if you’re not in the livestock industry.” – Ashley Wiegand, exhibitor of the Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Barrow

“Sometimes it’s difficult to get them to do what you want so it takes a lot of long hours.” – Kaolin Lewis, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Steer

“Every single day you’ve got to work with them make sure they’re right.” – Kastin Campbell, exhibitor of Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Lamb

“I wish people knew just how much time and effort and how often we think about our animals. It’s not like we just go out to the barn for a couple hours a day and then forget about them. When we’re inside, out at our practices, or gone for something else, we’re still always thinking about our livestock projects and how they are doing.” – Hunter Shike, exhibitor of the Reserve Grand Champion Land of Lincoln Market Barrow

There's No Tired Like State Fair Tired

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 14:58:47 GMT

You don’t know tired until you know end-of-state-fair tired. I’m on day 1,247 of the state fair or so it feels today. I’m not sure what day of the week it is or what’s happening in the next hour. I know I showered today, but it probably wasn’t obvious as I was instantly covered in dirt, sweat and who knows what within my first hour in the barn.

I realize I am not the only one who feels this way as I’m greeted by fellow show parents suffering from the same affliction. We knowingly nod and putter on, cleaning pens, tidying up our tack areas and adding more ice to the cooler.

Sadly, state fair mini donuts and coffee aren’t enough to wake us from the state fair stupor.

But goodness, it’s a good kind of tired. It’s the kind of tired that reminds me there is nothing better than working hard for something and knowing you gave it your best.

It’s the kind of tired knowing that this week you anticipate all year is coming to an end, requiring you to move on to the next thing. But truth be told, you just want time to stand still for a few minutes so you can soak it all in through those tired eyes.

Because these are the moments we live for as show parents.

The fierce determination on her face as she takes her first sheep into the show ring at the state fair.

(Cindy’s Livestock Photos)
The conversations and coaching on the way to the show ring.

(Jennifer Shike)
The laughter of kids united by a common passion, kids who see the world through a different lens than others.

(Jennifer Shike)

The friend who always steps in to help without being asked.

(Jennifer Shike)

The smile she can’t contain as she shakes the judge’s hand.

(BROOKLYNN SALO/Cindy’s Livestock Photos)
The connection between kids and animals that reminds you there are some places in your heart that humans can’t fill.

(Jennifer Shike)

We live a lot of life in these show barns. Some of it’s fun to talk about and some of it’s not. But in the good times and in the tough times, we grow and we learn. We find out how to understand others better and we realize this world isn’t all about us. We get humbled, we get praised, we get hurt, we get redeemed, and we gain perspective.

These tired eyes aren’t just for lack of sleep during state fair week, but rather for a lot of life lived.

Parents aren’t the only tired ones!

(Jennifer Shike)

Read More: No, He’s Not a Buffalo: Why We Can’t Avoid Their Questions Anymore

Back to School or Back to Basics? The Clash Between Education and State Fairs

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 14:20:34 GMT

Shifts in school start dates over the years has stirred quite the conversation, particularly as it disrupts cherished summer activities.

Gone are the days when school began only after Labor Day — a move that heralded the official end of summer. Nowadays, many schools have adopted earlier start dates, often colliding with events that shape the lives of children and families, such as state fairs.

This scenario hits home for many, including my children, who often find themselves caught between preparing for the school year and participating in the state fair. A notable change, driven by the pressing need to address educational challenges like students falling behind, has led to the proposal of shortening breaks. However, some states understand the deep-rooted value of these breaks and have historically taken a stance to preserve them.

The Iowa Model: Balancing Education and Tradition

Take Iowa, for instance, where a law traditionally prevents schools from opening before the Iowa State Fair ends, commonly setting the school start after Aug. 23. This preservation allows students and their families to fully engage with the fair — an event deeply embedded in their culture, free from academic interruptions.

What remains unseen by many are the critical life lessons learned in the show ring and livestock barns at these fairs. Here, children embrace both victory and defeat, gaining a profound understanding that while everyone yearns to win, experiencing a loss is vital. Teamwork is at the heart of participating in livestock exhibitions. Families and exhibitors collaborate extensively to prepare animals for the show, a process that involves much more than fair week fun; it spans many months of hard work.

Lessons Beyond the Classroom

Children learn essential responsibilities through caring for their livestock, which includes feeding, watering, walking and washing them. These lessons of accountability are challenging to impart during the first week of school.

The fair also fosters sportsmanship and leadership. Encouraging others, shaking hands with competitors, and maintaining grace under pressure are integral experiences that teach resilience. As they return to the fair annually, kids naturally take on more leadership roles.

When the school start date overlaps with the state fair, it creates significant tension for kids and their families. This conflict intensifies for those involved in sports, with the stakes of missing practice leading to potential penalties like reduced playing time.

A Call for Change

The solution lies in following Iowa’s lead: delaying the start of the school year until after the conclusion of state fair season. This adjustment allows children to embrace both the lessons learned at the fair and those taught in school.

Let kids be kids; let them learn life’s best lessons in livestock show arenas. The lessons they garner in barns and show rings often outweigh what they might learn in a classroom setting.

In my opinion, it’s time for more states to recognize this, for the benefit of our children and our rich traditions.

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Drovers Round Up: Feedstuff Finder, Royal Scholars, Beef Center Hire and New Docility EPD

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:46:56 GMT

Free Feedstuff Finder Tool Helps Buyers and Sellers

U.S. farmers and ranchers have a free, easy-to-use tool from University of Missouri Extension to help them buy or sell hay and other feedstuffs.

Feedstuff Finder gives users a quick, simple way to calculate a delivered feedstuff cost from a seller so buyers can determine the true cost of their feedstuff. Users can apply filters to easily compare costs and sort out various feedstuffs.

Producers do not have to set up an account to use the free web-based tool. It was designed to help buyers find and cost calculate feedstuffs and provide a market for sellers.

Other features include:

Nutritional information to help determine value of feeds
Delivery cost calculations
Ability to source and price bulk grain byproduct feeds
Offers current market value for feedstuffs

American Royal Announces 2025 Royal Scholars

The 2025 class of Royal Scholars has been selected to represent the American Royal’s mission and advocate for the agriculture industry throughout the next year.

These 10 recipients, who are studying agriculture, food or natural resources, will each receive a $3,000 scholarship. They were selected from 166 candidates from 29 states, representing 40 colleges and universities.

The 2025 Royal Scholars are:

Dalton “Drew” Blanton of Plant City, Fla., majoring in Food and Resource Economics and minoring in Agricultural and Natural Resource Law at the University of Florida
Samantha Bonifas of Roseland, Neb., majoring in Agricultural Economics and minoring in Pre-Law at Kansas State University
Bailey Boyd of Turpin, Okla., majoring in Agricultural Education at Oklahoma State University
Rayleigh Carter of Marianna, Fla., majoring in Agribusiness and minoring in Energy Finance & Ethical Leadership at Oklahoma State University
Makenna Garrett of Bedford, Va., majoring in Plant and Soil Sciences and minoring in Environmental Economics and Politics and Policy and Agronomy at Oklahoma State University
Sarah Liepold of Arvada, Colo., majoring in Agricultural Business at the University of Wyoming
Mackenzie Malson of Parma, Idaho, majoring in Agriculture Economics and Global Food Systems Leadership and minoring in International Agriculture and Communications and Education for Agriculture at Kansas State University
Kamille Mirkin of Jerome, Idaho, majoring in Agricultural Economics and minoring in Ag Commodity Risk Management and Animal Veterinary Science at the University of Idaho
Elizabeth Schafer of Owaneco, Ill., majoring in Animal Science and minoring in Agriculture Communications at Kansas State University
Kylie Temple of Hermiston, Ore., majoring in Agribusiness and Applied Economics and minoring in Global Food System Leadership at Kansas State University

The 2025 Royal Scholars will represent the American Royal at events such as the American Royal Livestock Show, Youth Rodeo and Spring Field Trip, as well as attending business and industry visits around the Kansas City area.

Iowa Beef Center Director Names New Director

Aimee Wertz-Lutz is the new Iowa Beef Center director and Iowa State University extension feedlot specialist .

She brings both academic and industry experience to the position. Wertz-Lutz did her post-doctoral research in ruminant nutrition and nutritional physiology at Iowa State, followed by serving as a faculty member in the animal and range sciences department at South Dakota State University. She worked for ADM Animal Nutrition as a manager of ruminant nutrition research, then most recently as ruminant nutritionist for Devenish Nutrition (North America.)

Wertz Lutz says academically she asks ‘what if’ questions and seeks the answers that propel the industry forward. Her industry experience helps her assess what is the best technology available to date to address a problem then make a decision that balances the optimal path for production and economic soundness.

She says the beef industry needs to identify production factors that are fiscally sustainable, and resource and waste management practices that are efficient and sustainable.

“Generational sustainability will require a focus on the emerging generations of animal science students without an agricultural or farming background,” she adds.

As a nutritionist by training, Wertz-Lutz is drawn to impacts of nutrition from calf to packer.

American-International Charolais Association Introduces Docility EPD

The American-International Charolais Association launched a Docility EPD, which gives Charolais breeders and bull buyers a new tool to select for calmer, more manageable cattle.

AICA shares that docility is measurable and heritable. The new genetic tool aims to help with safer handling. It positively correlates with traits like yearling weight to improve performance and adds value to every step of the supply chain.

The Beef Improvement Federation recommends evaluating docility on a scale of 1-6 ranging from docile to very aggressive.

Learn more about this new genetic evaluation tool.

Don’t Let Activists Spoil the Fun this Fair Season

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 16:25:46 GMT

As we move into fair season this year, there are so many reasons to be excited! It’s a time to get out and visit with friends and neighbors, eat delicious snacks, and celebrate the hard work that youth put into raising livestock for shows. As a member of the agricultural community, this is also an invaluable time to reach outside the bubble and engage with the public about agriculture and where our food comes from. However, there are often detractors attempting to sway public opinion and, in some cases, even protest these events.

In recent years, animal rights groups have been known to protest with a variety of tactics, including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) bringing their “Hell on Wheels” vehicle to the fairgrounds. This initiative from PETA is a large truck that is meant to look like it is transporting pigs – it also claims to be loud, playing “the screams of panicked animals.” Last year, this truck made an appearance at several Midwest state fairs and is currently circling the U.S. with recent stops in Nebraska, Indiana and Illinois.

Other tactics seen at fairs and expos last year include animal rights groups handing out stickers and other pamphlets. It was reported that a group of animal rights supporters previously handed out what seemed like coupons to fair attendees. These coupons claimed to be for free fair food, like turkey legs and pulled pork sandwiches, but when you scanned the QR code, it would take you to a website in support of their vegan cause.

Fairs have also been the target of animal rights groups protesting birthing centers, specifically those highlighting pork production. While this is a great experience for fair attendees to potentially see piglets born up close (and the care that goes into this practice), animal rights groups have used this as an opportunity to protest sow housing and farrowing stalls.

Unfortunately, animal rights activist organizations see fairs as a major opportunity to spread misinformation about our industry and to diminish the great work done in the agricultural community. The good news? There are some steps fair organizers and exhibitors can take to keep security top of mind and keep the fun times rolling:

• All events should have a crisis plan outlining who should do what in various scenarios – protests, disruptions, etc. Crisis plans can also address natural disasters, accidents and other issues that may arise during the event. During this planning process, local law enforcement should be consulted about how to handle activist activity at fairs.

• Keep an eye out for suspicious activity: people carrying signs or other protest materials, someone taking a strange amount of photos/videos or recording with their phone (livestreaming is a common practice), individuals asking very direct questions, etc. Report any concerns immediately to fair management.

• Avoid confrontation. Activists want attention – please avoid giving it to them. Keep your cool and let law enforcement or event management handle any issues.

I hope that this is truly a great fair season for everyone and that you don’t let the actions of animal rights groups stand in the way of this great opportunity to interact with the public and share what truly supports pig farming in the U.S. – great farm families, starting with youth!

Abby Kornegay is the manager of issues and engagement for the Animal Agriculture Alliance.

Drovers Round Up: Internships, Scholarships and Cattle Marketing Program Updates

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 16:46:19 GMT

Learn more about opportunities for student internships and cattle marketing program updates.

MSGA Opens Internship Applications for 2025 Annual Convention

Student Internship applications for the Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) Annual Convention and Trade Show are open. Applications are due Sept. 15 and the internship will take place Dec. 8-13, 2025, in Billings, Mont.

The MSGA Annual Convention Internship program allows students to gain practical experience in association event planning, policy development, and social media production. Multiple internship roles are available, offering exposure to each of these key areas.

The Annual Convention and Trade Show is one of two annual gatherings, bringing together members to shape organizational policy and educational programs. Highlights include an industry trade show, policy meetings, keynote speakers and networking opportunities.

Visit the MSGA website to learn more about eligibility and to apply or contact the MSGA office at (406) 442-3420.

Applications Open for 2026 CattleCon Contests, Internships and Scholarships

Students can get involved in CattleCon 2026, which is headed to Nashville Feb. 3-5.

The 13th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, sponsored by Norbrook, is accepting entries through Oct. 15. The winner will perform the “Star-Spangled Banner” at the event’s Opening General Session and will receive round trip airfare to Nashville, a hotel room for three nights, complimentary convention registration, plus a pair of boots, jeans and a shirt from Roper or Stetson.

Any member or family member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, American National CattleWomen or Cattlemen’s Beef Board is eligible to participate in the contest. Previous NCBA National Anthem Contest winners are not eligible. The top four finalists will be chosen by Oct. 21, and videos will be posted to the CattleCon website. Voting will be open to the public Nov. 1-15 (one vote per person per day), and the winner will be announced Nov. 18.

College students selected as interns will be responsible for setting up the indoor arena, assisting at committee meetings and Cattlemen’s College, posting on social media and contributing in the NCBA booth. This opportunity offers college students the ability to network with industry stakeholders throughout the beef industry and gain valuable experience. Students also receive a one-year NCBA student membership.

Student interns must be able to work Feb. 1-6, 2026, provide their own transportation to Nashville, and be at least a junior-level college student at an accredited university at the time of the event. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, should be well-versed in all areas of social media, and preferably have a background in, or working knowledge of, the cattle and/or beef industry.

Interested students must complete an online Student Internship Application by Oct. 15 and submit college transcripts, two letters of recommendation and a resume.

Young beef producers, students, farmers and ranchers interested in attending CattleCon 2026 can apply for a scholarship. Scholarship recipients receive a complimentary Education Package registration and discounted housing accommodation for three nights. This is a great way for youth, first-timers and others to expand their network at the largest event in the beef cattle business. The application deadline is Oct. 15.

Cattle producers attending CattleCon 2026 are also eligible to apply for the Rancher Resilience Grant, which provides reimbursement for registration and up to three nights hotel. For more information and to apply, visit www.ncba.org/producers/rancher-resilience-grant .

CattleCon 2026 registration and housing open on Aug. 20. For more information, visit convention.ncba.org .

RAAA Rebrands FCCP as Angus Access to Increase Market Competitiveness

The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) has officially rebranded its Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) as Angus Access. The original FCCP program was the first genetic, age and source verification program in the beef built to USDA-approved standards. FCCP was launched in 1995 to provide Red Angus sired calves great access to market premiums through a low-cost, data-driven verification model.

The new Angus Access name supports broader industry efforts to secure recognition of Red Angus cattle within Angus-branded beef programs, according to the RAAA.

“This program has always been about creating opportunity for commercial cattlemen. Angus Access builds on that legacy, giving Red Angus producers a clear path to premium markets and rewarding those who invest in quality and accountability,” said Kyley DeVoe, RAAA president.

More than 3.5 million calves have been enrolled through FCCP and its counterpart, Allied Access, launched in 2011 to extend source and age verification to crossbred calves.

To learn more about sourcing and identification requirements visit the RAAA website .

To enroll in RAAA’s value-added programs, email tags@redangus.org or call 940-477-4593.

Here’s What Hofschulte Genetics Did When Facebook Shut Down Their Business Page

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 15:11:07 GMT

In 2019, Facebook unexpectedly shut down Hofschulte Genetics’ business page. In one second, years of audience-building and customer relationships were lost for Chris and Kaitlyn Hofschulte, showpig breeders in Miami, Okla.

“We soon realized we weren’t alone,” Kaitlyn Hofschulte says. “Breeders and farmers across the country were being censored or losing access to their communities due to Facebook’s policies prohibiting the sale of animals, especially live ones, on Marketplace and business pages.”

(Provided by Chris and Kaitlyn Hofschulte)

Instead of giving up on the idea of building community and increasing the reach of their business on a social platform, the Hofschultes developed an ag-friendly alternative app, StockLink, that lets producers sell livestock and genetics without fear of pages or posts being removed.

“The livestock industry needs an app like StockLink because we do not have a social media platform that is safe to market our livestock and products,” she says. “Most platforms are anti-ag and do not want to see us succeed – making it against their rules for us to speak freely on selling livestock and any animal product.”

StockLink will be available in Apple and Google stores mid/late July.

(StockLink)

During The Exposition in Indianapolis on June 9-12, the Hofschultes launched a preview of StockLink for the show pig industry.

“The response was unbelievable at the Exposition,” Hofschulte says. “We had tons of people and businesses reaching out to us asking how they could be one of the first to access the app.”

StockLink will be available in Apple and Google stores mid/late July. While general users of StockLink can browse, buy and connect for free, if you are a breeder, ranch/farm, ag business, etc., Hofschulte says you’ll be able to download and upgrade to a StockLink Pro account for $21.99/a month.

“With the pro account you will be able to have a visible business profile that you can customize, create general and marketplace posts and connect with potential customers,” Hofschulte explains. “If you’re a buyer or interested in the industry you will have a free general account that is hidden that lets you follow businesses, favorite posts to go back to see later, publicly comment and like, and message.”

StockLink is for everyone who is interested in cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and other businesses that help make the stock show industry what it is today, Hofschulte adds.

“This is an app designed for livestock producers, by livestock producers,” she says. “Let’s get away from anti-ag platforms that do not want us to succeed and switch to an app that will link our livestock industry together.”

Your Next Read: Show Pig Exhibitors: Future Talent the U.S. Pork Industry Needs

The Power of a Mentor: How You Can Inspire the Next Generation

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 17:12:45 GMT

I learned an important lesson early in life – find someone to look up to and help someone find a reason to look up to you. I know this is easier said than done. In theory, it is a great idea. But in reality, how do you put this into practice?

I spend a lot of time thinking about the next generation and ways to connect bright, promising young people to a life-giving future in agriculture. Over the years, a few things have become apparent to me when it comes to building connections between generations.

1. Make the first move.
Who cares if you get a cold shoulder? All too often we fail to make the first move because we let our doubts have more power than they deserve in our lives. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard farmers and other agricultural leaders express their desire to have young people reach out to them with questions. People want to be needed. The next generation will be more successful if they are armed with valuable lessons learned by today’s agricultural leaders.

It reminds me of the day I met Angie Denton at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. Admittedly, she tells the story with more drama than I recall. She says, “I was at the pen and carload show taking photos and this firecracker of a college girl came up and said she wanted to be my intern. I’ll never forget the passion and drive in her voice and her sincere desire to want to learn and grow as a livestock communicator.”

This makes me laugh because I was shaking in my boots – literally. But I also knew that if I wanted to intern with Angie, I needed to create a connection. Email wouldn’t do (and no, we didn’t have social media so don’t even joke about that). Most importantly, that quick conversation was a starting point for a lifelong friendship. But in the short term, it helped me land one of the greatest mentoring experiences of my life at the Angus Journal.

Fast forward a couple decades and it was my honor to encourage my mentor to apply for the Drovers editorial position. I’m excited Angie and I have the privilege of working together at Farm Journal as we seek innovative ways to serve America’s cattle and swine producers.

2. Listen more than you speak.
As one of the youngest executive directors of a state swine organization, Seth Mitchell’s path is one that’s turning heads. He is the first person selected for the Pork Industry Immersion Program, a two-year deep dive into organizational leadership in the swine industry. I’ll never forget my husband telling me Seth was one to watch when he was a student at the University of Illinois. I try not to admit this too much, but my husband was right.

Seth Mitchell on the stage at the National Pork Industry Forum.

(Jennifer Shike)

To say I was fascinated with Seth’s journey in the Pork Industry Immersion Program is an understatement. The forward-thinking approach of the industry leaders who helped create this program reminds me why the pork industry is so special. While other agricultural industries are finding it challenging to engage Generation Z, the pork industry has a different story to tell.

“I’m a firm believer that the pork industry’s greatest asset is its people,” Mitchell told me during a recent conversation we had on The PORK Podcas t. “Some of our tremendous leaders in the industry are starting to age out and we need a bench of good folks to come in and fill those potential vacancies coming down the road.”

Seth learned many valuable lessons during the immersion experience, but I couldn’t agree more with the perspective he gained on listening.

“When you understand that producers drive most of what we do as state and national pork organizations, you understand the value of sitting across the table and listening to what they have to say,” he says. “I believe there is more value in listening than speaking in those circumstances. I like to use the adage, ‘be interested, not interesting.’”

3. Feedback is a gift.
My experiences in FFA and 4-H helped me discover the blessing behind constructive guidance. We’ll never be so smart that we can’t benefit from someone else’s viewpoint.

Seth discovered this early and it’s serving him well in his new role as executive director of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association.

“One thing I’ve tried to be cognizant of is welcoming feedback,” he says. “Lean into it. Be curious and ask good questions. There are a lot of things I can’t fix unless someone makes me aware of it, so being receptive to feedback is helpful.”

Oftentimes the best thing we can do is invest in someone else. How will you accept the challenge to mentor the next generation? Don’t forget that it may be equally important to give someone else the opportunity to help you along in your journey. This is an industry that wouldn’t work without people. An investment in people always pays off in the end.

Your next read: In the Foxhole with Army Veteran and Pig Farmer Scott Hays

6 Steps to Successful Farm Transition

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 13:52:41 GMT

Aaron Blackmon, hog farmer and Extension agent from Bladenboro, N.C., advises others considering farm succession, whether with family members or a non-family member, to consider these six points. In 2023, he was able to purchase of a farm from the Singletary family whom he had worked for since he was 16 years old.

Don’t be afraid to have hard conversations.

“I didn’t go into it thinking that I wanted to get the farm,” Blackmon says. “That wasn’t the goal all along, but we started talking about it. It’s almost impossible for somebody that doesn’t inherit land or business to get started, so if it is something you’re interested in you have to talk about it. We could work toward a plan. It took a lot of hard conversations. If both parties can come together – a farm seeker and a person that’s trying to get out of business – to create a plan, I think that’s the best route.”

Farm owners should be willing to share their intentions, too.

“Sometimes people give some of these younger folks seeking a farm a false impression that they’re willing to sell when they really just want farm labor,” Blackmon says. “If you just want somebody to manage your place, be up front and say you’re not interested in selling. Then let them decide if they want to work for you.”

Recognize the value of mentorship in agriculture.

“Mentors are the foundation for the agricultural business,” Isaac says. “In Aaron’s case, he was not exposed to any kind of agricultural activity for two generations, other than just the backyard little farm.”

Working together allowed Blackmon and the Singletarys to get to know each other and build trust.

“We knew Aaron from the time he was 16, which made a great big difference,” Nina says. “He wasn’t somebody off the street who wanted to buy the farm. We knew him. We knew he would work hard and accomplish his goals.”

Create opportunities to gain experience when stakes are lower.

After working for Singletarys for a few years, Blackmon had the chance to manage one of the hog barns himself.

“It was a good entry into making business transactions. People can start acting funny when it comes to money,” Blackmon says. “Having the opportunity to rent land or equipment on a small scale is a good way to start. Isaac paid all the expenses up front, and we just settled in the end. I didn’t get paid until the end because that’s how farming is.”

Understand the time, resources and sweat equity owners put into their farms.

“I know the sacrifices Isaac and Nina made to buy and build that place, the times they went without, trying to stretch $1 just so that they can get to the point they are now,” Blackmon says. “They are secure in their retirement and still have inheritance for the next generation. I can appreciate the hard work they put into the farm.”

Because of the trust they had built through the years, the Singletarys knew Blackmon’s intentions were sincere.

“I’m not going to sell the farm and develop it,” Blackmon says. “They knew I was in it because I loved it, and I love them. They knew that I wouldn’t do anything that would hurt their legacy.”

Be patient.

“It takes time to build trust, and it takes time to have those conversations,” Blackmon says. “You’re not going to hash it all out in one conversation and expect them to sign a contract with you, then everything’s going to be ok.”

Blackmon says to set realistic expectations for making progress.

“We see a lot of people getting into business, and it seems like they go from like 10 acres to 2,000 acres overnight. And it’s just not that simple; it takes time to get there,” he adds. “I’m a very patient person for the most part and feel like things are going to work out the way they are meant to be.”

Prepare for the future now.

At only 29 years old, Blackmon doesn’t have a family or heirs yet, but he is making preparationsto ensure the farm remains viable and is hopeful he’ll be able to pass it down.

“Purchasing the farm is one thing, but there’s a lot of other stuff to think about,” he explains. “There are tax implications, accounts to create, liability and legal aspects to consider, and working with a lawyer who understands what you are trying to accomplish. I’m glad I had that mentorship and hope to be able to do that for somebody else, whether it’s my kids or someone else.”

Your next read: Beyond Bloodlines: How One Farmer Earned His Legacy

Mental Health Struggles in Agriculture: Using Social Media to Find Your People

Thu, 15 May 2025 12:26:22 GMT

“Ag as a profession can be lonely,” says cattle producer Erica Siler. “You’re not doing group activities very often, so it can feel lonely. But thanks to digital power you don’t have to be alone. You can be a good neighbor digitally.”

Erica and her husband, Joe, own Yankee Beef and Yankee Maple located in Western New York. The Silers manage a diverse agricultural business, including 120 cow-calf pairs, a small finishing feedlot, 8,300 tap maple woods and 1,000-acre of row crops.

In May 2022, Joe was struggling with anger and emotional challenges, particularly during a difficult farm transition and after experiencing personal losses.

“Mental health doesn’t mean you want to commit suicide,” Joe explains. “It means you’re mad every day. Or it means you’re sad every day. There are a million feelings that are associated. I was the mad guy. I was angry and mad at the world for how things all went down.”

Erica says, as the spouse of someone struggling with mental health, you want to be supportive and you want to try to fix the problem for them. But she encourages others saying, “it is OK that you can’t fix the problem” and don’t be afraid to seek help for your spouse.

“When your tractor or your truck breaks, and it’s not something that you know how to fix, what do you do? You hire a professional,” she explains. “So, it’s the same concept seeking help to deal with mental health issues.”

Asking around and doing some research online, the couple found a therapist, Catherine Cleveland , who specializes in agricultural mental health.

Joe says his initial approach to therapy was secretive, parking his truck blocks away from the therapist’s office, but he gradually became more comfortable and open about his experience.

“I don’t look at it as suicide prevention,” Joe says about seeking help from a therapist. “I look at it as I want to be a better farmer, better businessman, better person.”

He says the therapist “gave me a play-by-play of how I should step back and live in the moment.”

Joe, Erica and JJ Siler

(Yankee Beef)

Building a community
The couple emphasizes that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Joe says that it only takes one person speaking openly to help others feel comfortable about seeking support.

A pivotal moment in Joe’s mental health journey came when he shared his therapy experience on TikTok. The post went viral and sparked important conversations about mental health in agriculture, and the couple discovered that many farmers were experiencing similar challenges but felt isolated and ashamed to seek help.

Social media has become a crucial tool for connection in the agriculture industry, allowing farmers and ranchers to support each other digitally when physical proximity makes traditional support difficult.

Joe says he now participates in online farmer groups, creating a virtual support network that mimics the community interactions of previous generations. The millennial generation’s coffee shop.

The viral TikTok led the couple to start a podcast in October 2023 to continue discussing their journey. Titled “ Full Disclosure Farming: BrutallyHonest AgChats ” the couple says the podcast initially started as their “weekly therapy” — a way for them to process their own experiences.

Erica says the podcast became a way to normalize conversations about mental health in agriculture, provide support and connection for other farmers feeling isolated, and share their experience with farm transitions.

Seeking Help is OK
Joe says he has received numerous messages saying, “I was in a really dark place, and I didn’t think it was okay to go see a counselor.”

Mental health is a critical issue in agriculture. The Silers are passionate about destigmatizing mental health conversations. They say their generation of farmers is uniquely positioned to create change, being open-minded and technologically connected.

They recommend these simple steps for those struggling: 1) reach out via social media to a peer, 2) send a message to someone in a similar situation, and 3) find a therapist who understands agricultural challenges.

You can connect with Erica and Joe at:
https://www.tiktok.com/@brutallyhonestag
https://www.tiktok.com/@mrs.yankeefarmer
https://www.facebook.com/yankeebeef

Your Next Read: How Focusing on Good Movement Draws Good Movement In Both Cattle and People

Be A Good Neighbor: Check In and Watch for Signs of Stress

Thu, 01 May 2025 11:19:06 GMT

The pressure of farming and ranching today is real. The stress of managing a farm or ranch during challenging or not so challenging times can weigh heavily on an individual’s mental health.

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. from Kansas has shared his concern about the mental health of farmers and ranchers. During the recent Top Producer Conference hosted by Farm Journal, Marshall encouraged the audience to be good neighbors and look out for signs of depression, such as changes in appearance, sleep patterns or social withdrawal.

“We think about the farm-related accidents that we grew up trying to prevent,” he recalls. “This a bigger danger, a bigger risk. I just want to encourage farmers and ranchers to realize some of the signs and symptoms of depression.”

Marshall shared these tips for being a good neighbor and supporting the mental health of fellow farmers and ranchers. Look for these signs or symptoms of depression:
- Trouble sleeping at night and not being able to get back to sleep
- Giving away possessions or buying more life insurance
- Changes in appearance, like not shaving or combing their hair
- Withdrawing from social activities they used to participate in

He encouraged producers to reach out to friends and neighbors who might be struggling.

“Reach out to that neighbor of yours,” he says. “Be a good neighbor and say, ‘Hey, let’s go grab a cup of coffee and maybe a cinnamon roll.’”

Marshall says it is important to leverage your networks and connections in the community and look out for one another. He also encourages producers to recognize the resources available beyond just calling the 988 mental health hotline, such as local community health centers, which can provide support without the stigma of going to a mental health facility.

Marshall’s call to action is to be proactive, recognize the signs and then provide compassionate support to their friends, neighbors and fellow farmers who could be struggling with mental health challenges. Marshall emphasized the importance of the community looking out for one another during these difficult times.

Mental Health Resources

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Dan Hoge Opens Up About 55-Year Career Training Future Stock Show Judges

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 15:45:28 GMT

What will the champions in the show ring look like in five years? That’s a question Dan Hoge, one of the winningest livestock judging coaches in history, thinks about constantly. Trends come and trends go. It’s not easy to stay relevant while being nimble enough to see what’s coming and evolve to get there.

But Hoge’s ability to do just that as a coach, judge and breeder for decades is what sets him apart from others, says Blake Bloomberg, professor and head livestock judging team coach at Black Hawk College East Campus.

“Dan has been at the top of his profession for over 50 years, and is still sought after for his input,” Bloomberg adds. “His impact on his students and his influence beyond the classroom is undeniable.”

Hoge says his interest and passion in the livestock industry keeps him constantly learning and searching for what’s next. He’s an avid scholar – always reading about livestock, studying photos of champions and talking about trends in the industry with people he admires.

“The miles never made any difference to me,” Hoge says. “If there was a symposium going on or if Dr. Harlan Ritchie was speaking about the cattle industry, I found a way to be there. I pay attention to what legendary breeders like Chuck Olson and Earl Cain are doing in the swine industry. Of course, there are always new breeders coming along who are going to dictate, to a necessary extent, where the industry will go next.”

At the end of the day, good livestock will always be in vogue, he says. There will be changes in priorities. Trends will shift. But the best stockmen are open-minded and always looking to see what is coming in the future. He believes the ability to evaluate livestock and read differences in phenotype is essential to it all.

What Coaching Is and What It’s Not
That’s why coaching young adults in livestock judging has been Hoge’s passion .What’s the secret to his coaching success? He says there’s no curriculum to teach you how to be a livestock judging coach, it’s a lot of learning as you go and caring about who you coach.

“Coaching is 80% what’s in your heart and 20% what’s in your mind,” Hoge says. “It’s really believing in the young people who are involved in your program. It’s reaching out and knowing their goals, interests and expectations.”

Dan Hoge’s ability to connect with every audience is one of greatest strengths.

(Jennifer Shike)

Livestock judging is a very inexact art, he points out. It is not a science, it’s a skill developed over time that is subject to the opinion of someone else.

“It’s important the student feels good about themselves at every step of their development,” he says. “It’s about inching along and making progress.”

When it comes to coaching kids to excel in livestock judging competitions, Hoge believes in helping young people finish strong.

“It’s not a question of where you start, it’s a question of where you finish,” Hoge says. “That has always been the mindset I have instilled in our student judges over the years. It’s one of the real values you can take with you in life.”

When You Step Out into the Ring
There’s no shortage of ways to use the skills developed judging livestock and describing them, Hoge adds. For many young people he mentors, their end goal is to judge a livestock show.

Dan Hoge at the Oklahoma Youth Expo

(Oklahoma Youth Expo)

“I remind young judges that every show is important, regardless of how small it may be,” Hoge says. “If there are two head of livestock at an event, that’s a livestock show. Go give it your best.”

As livestock judging has grown in popularity and more contests have popped up across the country, the level of talent has grown, too.

“I often tell our younger judging generation that, believe me, no one is interested in how smart you are and how poor their livestock are,” Hoge says. “They’re interested in your positivity, how you work with the youth, and how you make sure every youth involved in that show felt they had a fair look and an opportunity to feel good about their project and themselves. I don’t know if we have enough of that today.”

He reminds young judges to stop and take a breath before they step out of their vehicle when they arrive at a show.

“Ask yourself, ‘Why am I here?’” Hoge says. “The smartest thing you can do as a show judge at a county fair, and I’ve judged many, is study the atmosphere as you walk to the show ring. When you walk into that ring and meet the superintendents for the first time, that awareness of the atmosphere will provide a pretty good handle on what the show is going to be like.”

The most important thing a show judge brings to any event is their opinion and comfort in knowing what they are looking for in a champion. Although judges can only use what’s brought to them to evaluate, knowing where you want to finish is necessary, Hoge adds.

The little things matter, he says, from how you speak to people working in the ring to how you connect with the crowd. Judges have the opportunity to serve as another bridge between the showmen and their projects and the spectators.

“You can’t expect the urban sector to understand the care and management people put into their livestock or how great of a life their show livestock have,” Hoge says. “When you judge or show livestock, make a commitment to do things right and always be a voice of positivity in the industry. Be proud of what we do.”

Go watch The PORK Podcast Episode 17 with Dan Hoge to learn more about his perspective on the misconceptions people have about the stock show industry today, what he’s most proud of in his life, teaching students for 55 years and counting, and how he anticipates the livestock industry changing in the future.

Your Next Read: Thank You Mr. Hoge

Talking About Transitioning Our Farms and Ranches

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:51:23 GMT

Agriculture is a multigenerational industry, and it is a source of pride for many people in the sector. However, it is also a challenge we must navigate as we move our businesses from one generation to another. There are several hurdles to transitioning a farm business to the next generation, including legal, financial and social. Initially, we often turn to lawyers and accountants with our questions. However, perhaps the first and most challenging obstacle is the communication needed to bring our families together for these major decisions.

Research in the area of transition planning suggests that there are four stages to go through:

Development of a retirement plan
Identifying a successor, either family or non-family
Transferring managerial control
Legal transfer (lawyer and accountant)

Many farm transition planning workshops host a lawyer and/or accountant to answer questions and help farm families, but it might be interesting to know that this is the last step in the complete process and that we tend to get stuck on the first step more often than not.

The legal barriers to transitioning a farm require expert help and will vary by farm business, as will the tax implications for different asset bases and in different states. The financial barriers can either speed up or slow down transition plans as the available funds can affect the viability of bringing another person or family into the business. The social barriers will also vary and can include factors such as delaying a transition decision while waiting for a child to make career and/or marital choices. Marriages and divorces can complicate transition planning as well.

It can also be difficult for a farmer or rancher to give up their identity as a producer and control of business decisions by handing over the keys to another, even when it is the next generation of their family. The social barriers arise because farms are a unique intersection between families and businesses.

In conducting qualitative research in Alabama, we have talked to many farmers between the ages of 35 and 50 about their management styles and the issues that challenge them in their operations and lives. We are learning transition planning is at the top of their minds, but approaching the older generations who still own and/or control farm assets is not always easy. They don’t know how to start the conversation in a respectful way that keeps the line of communication open.

One way to start the conversation could be by encouraging them to attend a transition planning session put on by Extension or at a commodity meeting. Another is asking a family friend to broach the topic, reminding them that time can slip away from them if this gets put off indefinitely. Maybe the first step is as simple as forwarding a copy of this article and asking them to share a conversation over a cup of coffee. Whatever your approach, it is worthwhile to consider and discuss.

Article written by Taylor, Mykel, and Kelli Russell. “ Talking about Transitioning our Farms and Ranches. ” Southern Ag Today 5(14.1). March 31, 2025.

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Texas Teen Charged with Deadly Conduct After Letting Steers Loose at Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 20:54:48 GMT

A Texas teenager was arrested and charged with deadly conduct for his behavior at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo on March 19.

Alonso Apodaca, a 17-year-old fairgoer, was worried the steers were tied up too tightly, ABC 13 News reports. He went up to a steer, took off its halter and let it loose. Then, he continued to do this for another steer, the article says.

He went up to a third steer and was petting it when someone asked him not to do that, ABC 13 reports. He was tackled to the ground and handcuffed soon after this.

Apodaca was charged with deadly conduct, a misdemeanor. He was taken to jail where he remained overnight as his mother told local reporters that she wanted to teach him to control his actions and emotions better. The teenager took responsibility for his decisions and later told ABC 13 News that he learned an important lesson to think before taking action next time.

Although none of the steers got out and nobody was injured, stock show officials expressed their concern about the unpredictability and danger of loose 1,200+ lb. animals in a crowd of people.

A record-breaking 2.7 million people attended the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo this year.

(Brianna Knowlton/Next Level Images)

Show Livestock Require Proper Animal Handling Skills
While show cattle might appear calm and friendly, they still require experienced handling and restraint, says Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Calf Scramble Judge Jon DeClerck.

“For the safety of both the public and our exhibitors, it is critical no one interacts with livestock without the owner’s permission and assistance,” says DeClerck, incoming executive vice president of the American Simmental Association. “A loose steer in a busy environment can pose serious risks, from injuring pedestrians and junior exhibitors to causing accidents. As a judge we greatly appreciate everyone’s respect for these animals and the hard work exhibitors put into their care and safety.”

Signs clearly ask people not to touch the animals. This is not only for the safety of animals and fairgoers, but also for the health of both animals and people.

A record-breaking 2.7 million people attended the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo this year. A crew of 35,000 volunteers give their time to help make the 20-day event that brings in more than 12,000 head of livestock a success.

Know the ‘Why’ Behind Proper Show Conduct
Jeff Langemeier, one of the event’s volunteers with decades of experience in the stock show industry, says the majority of the volunteers come from cities and there is a need for more rural volunteers who have livestock experience. That’s one of the reasons why he volunteers to help at the show – to help share his practical knowledge of the livestock industry in this volunteer role.

“This instance brings to the forefront the safety of all attending and these valuable projects are of the utmost priority,” Langemeier says. “Safety protocols are in place for all committees and instilled in the behaviors of all involved.”

Beyond the component of human and animal safety, it is important for exhibitors to be diligent and engaging in the ‘why’ behind their conduct at livestock shows, particularly with large public crowds, says Clay Zwilling, CEO of the National Swine Registry.

“We often take for granted our daily and routine tasks,” Zwilling says. “This is an example of stepping back and thinking about why we may have common practices, or more importantly, how we remain diligent to protect fairgoers and fellow exhibitors.”

Emily Ellis, director of communications and content for Animal Agriculture Alliance, agrees that this story emphasizes the continued need for members of the animal agriculture community to proactively communicate what they’re doing on the farm and why certain practices are important for animal welfare, animal health, environmental stewardship and other valued issues.

“This highlights the unintended consequences of members of the public taking matters into their own hands when they don’t understand or agree with a practice being used in agriculture,” Ellis says. “In some instances, as it appears in this case, it’s due to a misunderstanding. In other instances, it’s connected to more extreme ideologies like animal rights activism.”

Zwilling adds that everyone is very lucky that no people or animals were hurt or caused themselves or others damage.

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3 Tips for Young Ranchers

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:35:00 GMT

It’s an exciting time to be a rancher and truthfully, as a young rancher myself I think we have a lot to look forward to. But just because we have a lot to look forward to doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot of work to do either. One thing I don’t take lightly as a young rancher is that we hold the future of the industry in our hands. Generations before us have put in the work and now it is our turn.

How we choose to show up and do the work will look different for each person but after over 5 years of podcasting and over 200 episodes, here’s what I think we need to do.

#1 Show Up
I’d argue most ranchers are outstanding at showing up for the ranch. This dedication needs to be spread to organizations and meetings that move the needle for the industry too. I always enjoy seeing a full room when I attend meetings, but I don’t see many people without gray hair. Showing up can look like showing up to meetings, serving on a committee, leading a committee or even being on the board. It all depends on your ability to volunteer time.

If you run into challenges where the senior generation also wants to attend the same meetings, ask if you can swap which days you are gone or find a neighbor to look after things for a day or two. Get creative and don’t let day-to-day ranch chores hold you back from doing your part and getting involved.

#2 Ask Questions of the Older Generation
About all those people with gray hair…what a great opportunity for the rising generation to learn from so many people! Part of the reason I enjoy hosting a ranching podcast is because it is the best continuing education experience I could have ever created. Creating opportunities to visit with people for even 15 minutes can create so many learning opportunities.

Whether you want to ask a friend, neighbor or family member questions about their experiences in the beef industry; here are a few questions to serve as a guide and get the wheels rolling.

Tell me how you got started with ranching?
How has your operation shifted since you got started?
If you could start over, what would you do differently?
Which years were the hardest and how did you overcome them?
If there is one piece of advice you’d give all young ranchers, what would that be?

Conversing with and learning from seasoned ranchers can be enlightening. Sometimes you see how some challenges are still the same. Other times you see how different things are!

#3 Check Your Mindset
Every generation seems to think they had or have it worse than any other. I’m not sure if it’s true or where this entirely comes from but it is a mindset I choose to distance myself from. I don’t find it beneficial for my own personal growth or growth of our business.

I believe each generation faces their own unique challenges and a small challenge for one person might be a big challenge for another and vice versa. It all comes down to being grateful and gritty.

Be grateful for the advantages we have and the little things in life. Get gritty with challenges and lean into them to find enjoyment. These challenges can be where you find friendship, mentorship and total breakthroughs if you truly choose to have an open mind and seek help from others.

The list of things young ranchers should do to be successful is a long one but these three tips are the ones that stick out the most to me after over 5 years of podcasts and a (young) lifetime of ranching.

Creating Ranch Revenue with AirBNB Rentals

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 11:48:00 GMT

Returning home to the family operation can be an exciting time for the rising generation, however finding ways to add value and support another family is no easy feat. Additional revenue sources need to work with the ranch’s goals and overall system. What works for one neighbor, might not work for the other.

Lettie Nickell knows exactly how challenging it can be to find ways to create additional revenue, yet she didn’t let that stop her from finding unique ways to earn a salary with the resources already on hand.

“I originally started selling beef directly to consumers to create extra revenue but when I really looked at the needs of our area, I realized there weren’t many options for people to stay who were traveling through,” says Nickell during her interview on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast.

Nickell is located in rural southwest Kansas. She is 80 miles from the nearest Walmart, five hours from Denver, four hours from Wichita and three and a half hours from Amarillo. She notes that the busier seasons correlate with hunting, but still remains busy year around.

“I started by renting out my house and staying with my parents when it was being rented. Little did I know that I would be staying with my parents three out of the four weeks in a month,” Nickell says.

After seeing how successful this opportunity could be, she began brainstorming ways to create another AirBNB with the resources she already had. Her solution was renovating an old grain bin on her property and advertising it as a glamping experience.

She says, “People are craving getting back to the roots of outdoors and seeing a farm or ranch. A lot of times we’ll have people drive down from cities just for a date night.”

Nickell makes a point to host her guests more if she is available and they desire the interaction. This can be as simple as making omelets with fresh eggs or just showing them the reality of ranch life.

The AirBNB works perfect for Nickell’s lifestyle as it is flexible and not time consuming. It also adds to the ranch’s wedding venue and community event space. Nickell is solely in charge of both these enterprises and made a point for them both to be as hands off as possible.

“We all know margins are tights and every little bit counts. The AirBNB is my salary and I can still do what I love every day on the ranch while hosting guests,” she says.

Liability is of course something to consider with this experience. AirBNB does have liability policies for damages to the property, however it is worth talking to an expert about taking out an additional policy.

“The AirBNB is separate from the rest of the farming and ranching. It’s in it’s own little parcel and I kept it that way on purpose. I think it is a smart business move because things can happen and it’s important to protect yourself,” Nickell explains.

The process of hosting starts by simply looking at what is available on the property. The opportunity could lie in an empty farmhouse, grain bin or any building that is structurally sound. Even if there are no additional structures worth renovating, yurts and teepees are also popular options on AirBNB.

Nickell says, “Sometimes we get tunnel vision within the agriculture industry and we don’t think about all the resources we have and the different ways we can utilize them for extra income.”

If you are interested in creating extra revenue for your operation through hosting guests, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and look at the bigger picture of what your community needs.

Watch the full conversation here or on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast .

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How My Insecurities Made Me More Grateful

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 16:33:39 GMT

Do you ever dwell on what you think you lack?

Not long ago, I was in San Angelo, Texas, getting ready to speak to a group of about 350 kids and parents at Lackey Livestock’s Training Day. I was excited to share some of my story while encouraging the attendees to be brave and share theirs. The theme was YOUR Story with an emphasis on “our” – the idea that “your story is our story” because our collective story has power to change the world and make an impact.

I couldn’t have loved this theme more. It’s why I do what I do. I spent hours trying to think through my approach. The more time I spent thinking about it, the more I found myself focusing on what I felt like I didn’t have.

I wasn’t fun enough.
I wasn’t motivational enough.
I wasn’t prepared enough.
I wasn’t smart enough.
Even my outfit wasn’t cool enough.

Shift Your Focus
I tried to shift my focus to what I knew to be true. At the core it’s simple - I love being able to connect with people – and in this case, families who share the same passions as mine. I knew this door was opened for a reason. I had to let go of my insecurities and trust any mistake I might make would be forgiven because I was going to be surrounded by good people.

I think that’s what I appreciate most about the gift of gratitude. Gratitude is not just a response to our circumstances – it’s an attitude we’re called to develop. Gratitude isn’t a gift – it’s something we are called to work on and grow.

Once I shifted my mind from focusing on what I lacked to being grateful for the opportunity before me, everything changed. I walked up to the stage with confidence, trusting God with everything I felt I lacked in that moment, and I spoke from the heart.

Be A Little More Vulnerable
Not only did I share my story, but I weaved in stories I’ve helped tell over the years. I shared how those stories helped open my eyes, change my perspective and most importantly, grow me.

At the end of my time on stage, I shared a little from my story about Maddison Caldwell . I knew it was risky because my audience was a mix of ages. I carefully talked about mental health – the reality that life isn’t easy, and we shouldn’t assume so much about other people.

I shared that Maddison had reached out to me recently to let me know she met a farmer at a conference who shared he was at a breaking point in his life. Suicide felt like his only option. But at just the right time, he ran across this story , which led him to Maddison’s story . Because of those stories, he stopped what he was about to do and chose to keep fighting in life. He told her he didn’t want his family to suffer like Maddison’s did.

When she told me that over a text, I didn’t even know how to respond. I broke down in tears. I still get emotional every time I think about Maddison’s encounter with the farmer. A life was saved because someone chose to be honest and vulnerable about their struggles.

There is Power in Your Experience
When I got done speaking that day in San Angelo, conversation after conversation confirmed that when we let go of our insecurities, incredible things can happen. I know it’s not always easy to share our stories, but there’s power in our vulnerability and honesty as humans.

As the holiday season approaches, I’m encouraged to not only share stories with my loved ones and friends, but to also truly listen and help people open up about theirs. This year hasn’t been an easy one for many people, but there’s great power in those stories of struggle – much more than our stories of “wins” if we’re being honest.

How can you stop focusing on your insecurities and let your story help someone else?

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An 11-Year Old's Idea Sparked An Idea That's Grown Into an Annual Toy Drive Giving Out 13,000 Toys Each Year

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 15:53:20 GMT

The season of giving for Reed Marcum doesn’t just happen during Christmas. For this 19-year, the season of giving is year-round.

“I came up with the idea back in 2016 when I realized that I wanted to help put another toy under someone’s tree that year,” says Marcum, who’s now a Pittsburg County, Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador.

At just 11 years-old, this 4-H member had an idea: Collect toys and give them out to children in his local community.

“He came home one day, he talked to me and his stepfather, and he said, ‘Mom, I want to help some kiddos in my class for Christmas,” remembers Angie Miller, Reed’s mother. “I said, ‘OK, what can we do?’ I told him he could do a little work, and he was like, ‘No, I want to give out toys.”

Reed Marcum at 11-Years-Old

(Angie Miller)

Started Out As a Small Idea
That first year, Reed’s small idea turned into a huge success, giving out around 5,000 toys at his stepfather’s law office. Little did this family know that was just the start of something grand.

“It was something we didn’t expect to do, especially have that much success and community reaction. They really loved it. We did not expect that,” Reed says.

J Michael Miller Toy Drive
What’s called the J Michael Miller Toy Drive has grown each year, even during COVID.

“What happened was COVID hit, and we had told Reed that it just can’t happen that year. And he said, ‘It can happen, Mom,’” Angie says.

And it did. With the help of the community, Reed moved the toy drive to Ragan’s Auto, a decision that helped this drive grow even more.

“He spoke with Mr. Ragan, and he told Reed we can do this. They moved all their cars out by noon that day. We moved in around 1:00, and we would set up all night long, and then we open the doors, they would start driving through,” Angie says.

The annual J. Michael Miller Toy Drive gave out 13,000 toys this year.

(SUNUP)

Within a couple years, they even outgrew that space. Last year, Reed moved his toy drive again, this time, to the McAlester Expo Center.

“We are orchestrating with the local Expo Center here in McAlester for people to come, and it’s just an amazing venue for what we’re doing here. And it’s an amazing process that we have to set up and do,” Reed says.

Biggest Toy Giveaway Yet
On Dec. 7,2024, Reed had his biggest giveaway yet.

“We collected a ton, but we were able to give out around 13,000 this year, that day,” Reed says.

What started as one small idea has brought generosity through toys that touched 13,000 lives this year alone.

“It’s a year-long process,” Angie says. “The entire year we’re looking for toys, collecting them and getting donations from people. But when the day gets near and close, it really starts to ramp up.”

Cars line up 3 to 4 miles long for the annual toy drive.

(Bryan Fuller)

Recipients Come From Surrounding States
Since 2016, this toy drive has given away more than 64,000 toys, an annual event that people wait in line for hours to receive. And as the event grows each year, lines of cars that now stretch three to four miles long, all with kids eager to receive toys that year.

“I was working the line this year, and we did see license plates from Texas and Arkansas. That’s normal,” says Greg Owen, Pittsburg County, Oklahoma 4-H educator. “I would ask the people in the line, ‘What was the experience like?’ And this year, I heard the comment ‘It was literally perfect.’”

Vital Volunteers
But for Reed, this wouldn’t be possible without volunteers, all 100 of them.

“They can help us move the toys from point A to point B when we’re holding them or in help, give the toys, help, walk the line, be dressed up in costumes to help entertain the kids, give out small items that go through the lines. The kids aren’t just sitting there bored,” Reed says.

Loss Turned Into Love
Reed’s toy drive has become a beloved experience attracting thousands of people from miles away. But this kid who has brought so much joy to others has also seen heartache along the way.

“He had the most difficult year of his life his junior year,” Angie says. “We were moving to Ragan’s that year, and on July 28, he lost his grandmother that he was extremely close to.”

Reed’s brother, Sergeant Miles Tarron

(SUNUP)

Not even four months later, Reed suffered another devastating loss, just weeks away from his toy drive in 2021.

“We were notified by soldiers that Reed’s brother had passed in the military,” Angie says. “I talked with Reed and I told him I didn’t think we can do the toy giveaway. And he said, ‘Mom, brother would want us to do the toy giveaway, so we’re going to do the toy giveaway.’”

And he did, with an entire community rallying around Reed as a way to give back to one of their own who had done so much.

“They helped us get it over to Ragan’s. We got it all set up. And then they just helped us all the way through it,” Angie says. “After that, Reed had already created the Hudson Strong Foundation for a little boy that had cancer. And they provided some help with the costs of the storage buildings. Then after his brother passed, Reed created the Sergeant Miles Tarron Foundation, and that supports his toy giveaway, his backpack giveaway and his silent auction. His brother always had a hand in supporting him and sending money. So, now the Sergeant Miles Tarron Foundation and the Hudson Strong Foundation support those storage buildings.”

Reed has nine storage buildings, all bursting with donated toys each year. But this success is also because of one lady Reed deeply admired: his 4-H leader, Miss Donna Curry.

“After he lost his brother, June 28, 2022, he lost Miss Donna Curry, who was like a second mother to him, who got him into 4-H, and she supported this project thoroughly,” Angie says.

Today, Reed doesn’t just give away toys. Miss Donna had another idea two years before she died: to give out pajamas, socks and undergarments to those in need.

“We named it Miss Donna’s Closet. And when they drive through the toy giveaway, they get the pajamas, they get socks, they get undergarments all through the toy line. They get snacks. And so when we lost Miss Donna, Reed promised at that point that he would carry her tradition on.”

Reed is Now Inspiring Others
Reed’s heart of service is always on display, and it’s now inspiring others.

“It’s literally the goal that we try to set for our 4-H members. We hope that they’ll develop a level of mastery in their project work, and for Reed, his project has been civic engagement,” Greg says. “And when they get to that point, we’ll hope we hope that they’ll utilize that to teach and impact others to follow in their footsteps, which is exactly what Reed has done.”

“That’s the best thing with 4-H; they always want you to strive to be the best version of yourself. And that’s something this project really does every year,” Reed says. “It’s not just staying the same or leveling out each year. It’s getting bigger and better than the last.”

True Gift of Giving
Reed’s one idea in 2016 continues to spread joy year-round, as it showcases the true gift of giving.

“Little 11-year-old Reed could never see such a thing happening, especially when I was so young and couldn’t even talk to a group of ten people, let alone do something like this. I never thought it would reach this,” Reed says.

“I always share this. That came from the idea of an 11-year-old child. That shows the impact of the 4-H program. That shows the impact of a student that wants to give, that wants to make a difference and wants to make a positive impact on their community,” Greg says.

Reed Accepts Donations Year-Round
In order to make the annual toy drive possible, Reed accepts donations year-round. If you’d like to contribute to the annual toy drive or Reed’s other service projects, you can donate here .

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What the Next Generation Can Do to Prepare for Transition Planning

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 17:43:19 GMT

The interconnectedness of agriculture business and family relationships can make transition and estate planning feel challenging. Having the conversations and carrying out the legalities are two separate components that require great detail. Add on managing finances and what should be an exciting opportunity for the rising generation can quickly become overwhelming.

Jessica Groskopf, a Nebraska farmer and transition planning expert, talks about transition and estate planning in a different light. She spoke on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast about how the next generation can prepare themselves. She recognizes the challenges that come with the process, but also sees the hidden opportunities that can help the rising generation build for the future.

“There is a big part of the message missing when it comes to talking about estate and transition planning,” Groskopf says. “That part of the message is what we can do as the younger generation to prepare ourselves for that eventual transfer.”

Jessica and her husband know firsthand what it is like to build for the future even when there has been a lack of transparency and communication from the senior generation. Together, they turned what looked like a less-than-ideal buy out to others into a great opportunity for themselves by using emergency funds, good debt, flexible investments, and alternative revenue.

Groskopf says, “Fifty percent of land owned by an operator was purchased from a non-relative.”

That means the younger generation needs to start preparing financially because the likelihood of them purchasing property is very high.

Financial preparation can include many components. The Groskopfs knew they wanted to buy farmland at some point regardless of if it was in the family or not. So, they started early to prepare for their unknown scenario of a down payment for property.

“The key to savings and investing is time,” Groskopfs says. “The younger you start saving and investing, the better off you will be especially if you are allowing that money to grow over a significant amount of time.”

About five years after they began saving and investing, Jessica and her husband bought into the family partnership with the money they had accumulated. The amount of time, and money needed for a down payment is unique to each individual person and family.

Emergency funds are the first step to financial security.

“For most farm and ranch families, I prefer they have three to six months worth of family living expenses on hand,” says Groskopf

Emergency funds are the safety net that families can use to safeguard against bad debt and continue to move forward financially. One smart practice with emergency funds is to make sure they are in an easily accessible account that earns interest. Two account examples to explore are high-yield savings accounts or money markets.

The next step is to tackle “bad” debt.

“Not all debt is bad and debt is certainly not dumb,” Groskopf says. “Debt is a tool…I think most people understand what bad debt is, but I want to provide a clear definition. Bad debt has a relatively high interest rate, usually over seven percent. Bad debt is also purchasing items that are not necessary.”

Other considerations to make about debt include depreciation, tax advantages and if the item putting you in debt is adding value in other areas of the business. It ultimately comes down to how you manage debt because even good debt can pile up and put farmers and ranchers in less-than-ideal financial positions.

Once you have an emergency fund, and have paid off “bad debt”, it’s time to focus on other savings and investments.

“If the money will be needed within three years, it should go into the savings bucket,” Groskopf says. “High-yield savings accounts, money markets and bonds are all examples of accounts that can be used for shorter-term savings. Accounts used for savings should earn enough interest to outpace inflation, look for options with an annual percentage yield of 3% or higher.”

Groskopf says to invest money that will not be needed in the short term. Investment accounts usually have higher rates of returns but require leaving the money in the accounts for long periods of time to receive the advantages of using them.

For farmers and ranchers aiming to secure their financial future, Jessica recommends investing in flexible accounts. When picking an investment account, considerations need made to what tax and penalties may apply upon withdrawal of the funds along with any other stipulations that come along with the account. Once you have selected the account, you will then need to select the investments within the account. Producers should look for lost cost, diversified options such as Index Funds, Mutual Funds or Exchange Traded Funds, she adds.

“If your head is spinning when it comes to all this information, I’d encourage you to sit down with a financial advisor and explain your situation. Share how long you’d like to invest and how accessible you need the funds to be,” Groskopf says.

Alternative revenue streams or town jobs are a common risk management strategy for farm and ranch families. Whether they pay for living expenses or even supplement the business during the beginning years, they can be a valuable tool.

“I’m someone who says that it has to fit with the farm or the ranch,” Groskopf says. “You have to make sure the seasonality of the business doesn’t conflict with the farm or ranch and that you have the flexibility you need to get everything done.”

Financial and non-financial considerations need to be made before committing to another form of revenue for your personal life or ranch.

Building for the future takes time and experience.

“No one has taught any of us how to do this finance stuff…it is not something you should inherently know,” Groskopf explains. “If you are starting from scratch, go back to your balance sheet. Write down what you do and don’t have in place and even what you don’t understand. Connect with an expert such as your local banker or a financial planner who can help you move forward.”

If you are not comfortable investing on your own, work closely with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) professional, Certified Public Accountant, tax preparer, and/or investment advisor.

Listen to the full conversation:

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9 Livestock Showmanship Tips for Success

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 16:24:53 GMT

Every once in a while, there is a bond that is so strong that it can only exist between exhibitor and the animal. But that bond takes time together, hours of practice and patience. Once that bond is created, the duo can be a force to be reckoned with in a livestock showmanship competition.

Livestock showmanship is unlike most classes that the judge will evaluate at a show. In this special class, the exhibitor, not the animal, is judged on how well they present their animal. Showmanship skills develop over time. Although some exhibitors have more finesse than others, there are definite traits and skills that you will need to sort your way to the top of the class.

Here are 9 livestock showmanship tips for success:

1. The Work Begins at Home
Don’t go to a show and think you are ready to win a showmanship contest just because your animal is show broke. Have you practiced showing your animal at home? Have you regularly practiced and anticipated every scenario?

The key to having a successful relation-ship with your animal – every show animal – is working diligently with them at home. That means spending time walking them, time on the wash rack, working hair and skin and in a mock show ring set-ting.

For cattle, lambs and goats, practice the following:
• Leading
• Setting feet & legs and eventually “walking” them into a set
• Keeping their heads up at the desired level
• Bracing (lambs & goats)
• Side profile views
• Side-by-side views
• Avoiding show ring holes
• Pulling out and circling in the proper motion

For pigs, practice:
• Driving with their heads elevated
• Driving your pig for long periods to build stamina
• Keeping the pig between you and the judge
• Penning your pig when asked
• Going to a scale
• Changing sides while driving
• Keeping your pig out of show ring holes
• Stopping and keeping your pig relaxed at the judge’s request

2. The Value of Show Ring Presence
Troy Goretska, BioZyme Area Sales Manager for Iowa and Illinois, has raised four kids with various species in and around the show ring. He said that exhibitors who aim to win livestock showmanship need to have show ring presence and awareness.

“It is critical that kids go up and watch a few classes be-fore their class to see how a judge is working the class,” Goretska said. “Is the judge pulling from bottom to top or top to bottom? Is he sending animals to the scale, and if so, how many does he weigh in each class?”

A general ring awareness before even entering the ring tells the judge that you are here for business. You’ve done your homework. Scope out any uneven ground in the ring, and avoid holes or low ground, which can make your animal look off.

3. Show your Animal to Win
Although livestock showmanship is about the exhibitor’s skills, your animal should be calm and broke enough to show like you would in any confirmation class. Goretska encourages exhibitors to show their animals in showmanship as they would in class and show their animals in class as they would in showmanship – to win.

“There is no need to do anything special to present your animal in showmanship. Know the show ring, know the judge and go out and make your animal look the best you can,” he said.

4. Little Things Add Up
You’ve done your work at home. You’ve watched the classes at the show and know who the judge is and how she works. Now, it is time for the details. Here are a few details that could be the difference between first and second place in your next live-stock showmanship competition.

5. Look Professional
At Sure Champ, we don’t care what brand of jeans, shirt or shoes you wear. It looks like you care and didn’t roll out of bed at 4 a.m. (even if you did). Dark jeans, a tucked-in shirt and a belt look nice on a young exhibitor. We know that some species get a little more relaxed, and when it gets hot, young la-dies like a cooler more flowing shirt. However, for showmanship, a tucked-in shirt looks best.

6. Caps Off, Hair Back
Looking professional starts at the top. If you are a girl or young lady with long hair, please keep it out of your face. Many styles exist for longer hair, but a simple ponytail, braid or bun keeps your hair under control so you can focus on your animal and not your hair.

While many people like to sport a Western hat, keep the ball caps off. A cap says you are covering up messed up hair or serving as a walking billboard. A cowboy hat is classy and looks nice as long as it is in season, but please keep your ball caps at your show box.

7. No Gum Zone
The show ring is no place for chewing gum. The more nervous you get, the more apt you are to chomp away. Yes, that might catch the judge’s eye, but it isn’t the type of attention you want in the ring. Be sure to spit your gum out before the event begins.

8. Be Prepared with Equipment
Before you even head to the staging area or make-up area, ensure you have everything you need to present your animal. Do you have a show stick or scotch comb for your calf? A brush and whip for your pig? The right halter or chain for your small ruminant?

9. One Chance to Make a First Impression
No matter if it is your first showmanship class or your last, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Take your animal into the ring with confidence. Know where the judge is and know how to present your animal to look its absolute best.

Shelia Grobosky is the content and public relations administrator for BioZyme Inc .

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American Royal Association Receives Grant From Bayer Fund

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 11:28:00 GMT

The American Royal Association has received a grant for $20,000 from Bayer Fund, a philanthropic arm of Bayer in the U.S. The grant will be used to support the American Royal K-12 agricultural education programming in 2025.

“We appreciate the support of Bayer Fund as we strive to enhance our long-standing youth field trip experience and new programs, like AgStem camp, educational clinics and career development events,” says Lauren Luhrs, director of partnerships at the American Royal Association. “Since its founding in 1899, the American Royal has consistently weaved education into its programming. As we have expanded to host events year-round, our focus on education has also grown. This Bayer Fund grant will be tremendously beneficial as we work to impact the future of agriculture.”

The American Royal, whose purpose is to champion food and agriculture, will be using the grant funds to expand several of its education programs for students with minimal exposure to agriculture as well as youth with deep roots in the industry. The Bayer Fund grant will allow the American Royal to enhance these events with supplementary educational materials and take-home resources for participants, and offset costs for event setup, on-site medical care and security teams.

“Bayer Fund is proud to support the American Royal Association and their work to make real, sustainable impacts in the Kansas City area and beyond,” says Al Mitchell, president of Bayer Fund. “Programs like the American Royal’s youth education programs help our neighbors and make our community stronger.”

Bayer Fund supports Bayer, one of the country’s largest life-sciences companies, in achieving its mission of Health for all, Hunger for none by working with organizations and non-profits, like the American Royal Association, to support health and wellness and food and nutrition.

Learn more about the American Royal at americanroyal.com .

From Nothing to Now: 5 Producers Share Their Journey In the Cattle Business

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 18:45:13 GMT

by Lauren Gatz, BIF communication intern

“It was almost like a seven-year internship where we got to make the decisions. We got to make mistakes and figure out what we were doing,” said Lydia Yon about her early experiences in the cattle industry. Yon was on a panel as part of a live recording of the Brand and Barb Wire podcast moderated by Jim Johnson during the 2024 Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) Symposium June 10 in Knoxville, Tenn. The panel also featured her husband, Kevin Yon; Kristian Rennert; Brandon Cutrer and Keaton Dodd.

The panelists shared their diverse experiences and unique paths they took to build their successful ranching operations, offering insights and inspiration for young producers attending the BIF Symposium. Each panelist brought a different perspective while highlighting the importance of perseverance, innovation and community within the beef industry.

Rennert, who operates Rennert Ranch in Elm Creek, Nebraska, talked about his humble beginnings.

“We just did what we could afford,” he said. “We didn’t have endless budgets.”

He continually talked about starting small and gradually scaling up, a strategy that many young producers can relate to. He also touched on how his background in animal sciences and his work with breed associations helped equip him with the knowledge that has allowed him to be successful today.

Rennert also explained the challenges of ranching.

“It’s been a ride. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been fun. And it’s always challenging,” he said. He highlighted the reality that ranching can be a demanding career, but it is also deeply fulfilling.

Lydia and Kevin Yon own Yon Family Farms in Ridge Spring, S.C., and shared their experiences of building their operation from the ground up as first-generation cattle producers. The Yons started by managing a small Angus farm for seven years before they began their own operation. They emphasized the importance of experiences and how influential they can be. The Yons’ initial herd was acquired from a dispersal sale. They have grown that herd into a successful operation with a strong focus on family involvement and a passion for the cattle industry.

“We’re very thankful to be part of this industry,” Lydia said.

Brandon Cutrer and Keaton Dodd of BRC Ranch in Boling, Texas, touched on their approach to ranching, which combines traditional practices with modern marketing strategies. BRC Ranch was started in 2019 and is known for its purebred Brahman cattle.

“We market to domestic commercial cattlemen here along the Gulf Coast. We also market to kids showing heifers as well as seedstock producers,” Cutrer said. Their multifaceted approach has allowed BRC Ranch to reach a wide variety of customers.

Brandon and his wife, Rachel, work together to advance their operation.

“Rachel and I met at a Brahman show. I grew up in south Mississippi and she comes from a generational family,” Cutrer shared.

The couple has deep ties to the agricultural industry which has been integral to their success as a ranching operation.

The panel discussion was part of the Young Producers Symposium at BIF and provided an opportunity for the panelists to share their journeys, challenges, and successes. Each panelist highlighted the importance of hard work, continuous learning and dedication to build a successful operation.

You can watch the full panel below:

Click here to listen to the podcast recording.

For more information about this year’s Symposium and the Beef Improvement Federation, including additional presentations and award winners, visit BIFSymposium.com .

Voting Open for NCBA’s National Anthem Contest

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 21:23:29 GMT

Four finalists have been selected in the 12th annual National Anthem Contest, sponsored by Norbrook®. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is inviting the public to vote for the winner through Nov. 15.

Introducing the four finalists:

Jaci Deitrck of Newcastle, Okla., is involved in her family’s registered Hereford cattle operation and is pursuing a master’s degree in international agriculture at Oklahoma State University.

Payton Goodman of Canyon, Texas, is majoring in agriculture media and communication at West Texas A&M University and looks forward to advocating for the beef industry.

Anah Higbie of Quenemo, Kan., helps with her family’s commercial Simmental cow-calf operation, enjoys showing cattle and considers being an animal agriculture advocate one of the biggest passions of her life.

Hayden Ladd of Waldron, Mich., is a fourth-generation cattle producer who enjoys showing cattle, playing guitar, singing at local venues, and roping on the Michigan High School Rodeo team.

Videos of the finalists are available for viewing and voting at convention.ncba.org . The public can vote once per day per person through Nov. 15, and the winner will be announced Nov. 21.

The winner will perform the “Star-Spangled Banner” at the Opening General Session of CattleCon 2025 and will receive round trip airfare to San Antonio, Texas, a hotel room for three nights, complimentary convention registration, plus a pair of boots, jeans and a shirt from Roper or Stetson.

For more information and to register for CattleCon 2025 and reserve housing, visit convention.ncba.org .

I’ll Never Regret Giving Them the Stock Show Life

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:31:39 GMT

It’s often in the moments you least expect, that someone is watching and learning from what you’re doing. As a mom of three, I think about that a lot. We spend a huge chunk of spring, summer and fall attending livestock shows where our kids have the opportunity and privilege to learn from many different people.

Breeders, judges, industry leaders, family friends – I sincerely want to thank you for helping us raise our kids to know that there is something bigger in this world than just what we see in our hometown.

Raising our kids in the livestock industry has given them a “family” far bigger than I ever dreamed. Our youngest daughter, Harper, considers Sarah Yantis as another “aunt” who she can always trust and turn to for help.

(Jennifer Shike)

Because of your investment of time in their lives, they know the world is big. And isn’t that half of the battle? To realize there is so much more in our world besides us?

This hit home the other day when one of our kids remarked that they feel sorry for kids who don’t have those opportunities.

“I can go almost anywhere in the country and know someone because of the livestock industry – that’s pretty amazing,” my unidentified child told me. “And I know they’ll be there for me.”

At the end of the day, the relationships they are developing, the connections they are making, the ideas they are forming and the knowledge they are gaining, are helping them build a confidence that we simply can’t give them on our own.

So I wanted to stop for a minute to say thank you.

To the families we show with all summer, thank you for asking our kids questions and showing that you are interested in their lives. A little comment about their new hair style or asking them about their recovery from an injury means you saw them. It may sound silly, but in a world where people are so preoccupied, you took time to make a teenage kid feel seen. (Oh and thanks for sharing your snacks, too!)

It’s an incredible gift to be surrounded by stock show families who aren’t afraid to step in, show up and love your kids like their own. Our friend Emily Spray is known for her famous good-bye hugs.

(Jennifer Shike)

To the breeders who graciously allow us to buy and show your pigs, thank you for trusting our kids to do their best to care for the animals you raised. Thanks for investing time into checking in on them, listening to their perspectives and offering your advice. You’ll never know what a big impact you’ve had on shaping how they see livestock and how they see the agriculture industry.

I appreciate it when breeders take time to explain the why behind their decisions to help our kids learn. Our son Hunter (left) learned so much this summer from the time he spent helping Brandon Yantis (right), one of the breeders we buy pigs from each year.

(Legacy Livestock Imaging)

To the organizers of the junior shows who pour their time, talents and energy into making youth livestock shows possible, thank you. The doors you open for young people to find their place in the livestock industry is a gift I don’t take for granted. A lot of things vie for the hearts and minds of young people today. Thank you for making these events and shows possible.

(L to R): Olivia and her friend Hannah Miller thank Team Purebred Director of Junior Activities and Events Chelsea Schminke Grieder (center) after a busy week for her work organizing the Team Purebred National Junior Show.

(Legacy Livestock Imaging)

To the judges who step into the ring and make hard decisions all day long, who share their expertise and knowledge, and inspire our kids to be like them someday, thank you. Every time I look at the pictures of judges congratulating our kids this summer, I tear up. Your hugs and handshakes will be felt in their life long past that moment in the show ring.

Judge AJ Genter shakes Olivia’s hand at the 2024 Team Purebred National Junior Show.

(Legacy Livestock Imaging)

The Long Game
Our kids miss out on many social opportunities locally because they have chores or are gone showing on the weekends. Admittedly, it can be tough at times when they get left out of things. As a parent I’ve asked myself a time or two if the sacrifice is worth it.

Parenting is a long game. We’re building resilient decisionmakers capable of doing hard things – but also capable of kindness, gratitude and appreciation for others. As parents, we need to remember the momentary losses for the long-term gains are worth it. Don’t lose sight of what you are doing to open up their eyes to future opportunities. No, the stock show lifestyle isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.

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