Dept. of Animal and Dairy Science | April, 2014 | Vol. 01, Issue 01
Livestock News
Jacob R. Segers, Ph.D. – Editor
Spring Is In the Air
Greetings and Happy Spring from the UGA Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences,
As I ride through the countryside of South Georgia, the signs of spring are
evident all around. As buds burst into color, pollen coats the every surface, and late in the
afternoon you will find college students and newly emerged reptiles that have made their way slowly into
the sun in attempt to soak up some long-awaited warmth. On the farm, the clanging of steel on steel can
be heard along with the anticipation in the voice of Georgia’s farmers as they await the first wisps of dry
weather to charge to the fields and prepare for eminent growing season ahead. Junior livestock exhibitors
have completed another successful season at the Georgia Junior National Livestock Show, but even as one
season comes to an end, so begins the search for next year’s purple ribbon contender. In the livestock
markets, life is good cattle and hog prices are reaching record levels. Fall-born calves are approaching
weaning time and bringing a much needed rest for their dams, along with an opportunity to recover body
condition following one of the harshest winters in recent history. Spring-born calving is progress and most
producers are cautiously optimistic with cattle prices as healthy as they have ever been and showing no
sign of waning. Although some of the state may still face the dormant façade of winter, rest assured that
warmer weather has found its way to the Coastal Plains Experiment Station and UGA Tifton Campus, and
will hopefully reach you soon.
With the progression of this exceedingly wet spring, control strategies for internal and external
parasites should be at the forefront of producers minds from every segment of the livestock industry. As
lush green forages begin to green up, conditions like grass tetany and legume bloat become increasingly
prevalent in cow herds. Additionally, foot and hoof health of pasture dwelling species bears inspection.
Also, vaccination programs should be implemented to ensure optimal health and performance for all
animals. Finally, as we exit winter and look forward to the long days of summer, it is important to
remember to be vigilant in preparation for the coming winter, by exploring the futures market and
contracting grains, and coproducts before prices begin to rise.
It is a time of regrowth and rejuvenation in Georgia agriculture, and UGA Extension Animal
Science is available and waiting with eagerness to provide any and all services and information to support
our county agents and producers. With this inaugural issue of ADS Livestock News we put behind us a
winter plagued with low quality hay, hard doing cattle and increased supplementation costs and prepare for
the issues that come with the beginning of a new production cycle.
I am thankful to work with Georgia’s agricultural industry, and wish you every success in the coming year.
Jacob R. Segers, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor and Extension Beef Cattle Specialist
Department of Animal and Dairy Science
University of Georgia – Tifton Campus
Office: (229)386-3214; Email: jacobs@uga.edu
2
Table of Contents
A Common Sense Approach to Raising Beef Cattle ........................................................................ 4
Control of Nuisance Algal Blooms in Ponds Used to Water Livestock ........................................... 7
Livestock Producer’s Farm Bill Update ........................................................................................... 9
Preventing Grass Tetany in Cattle and Sheep ................................................................................ 11
Spring Care for Horses ................................................................................................................... 13
Who is Ready to Start Planning a Winter-Feeding Strategy…for Next Year’s Cow Herd? .......... 15
Participation In Georgia State Junior Livestock Programs ............................................................ 17
2014 Georgia Junior National Livestock Show Summary ............................................................. 19
2014 Georgia Junior National Livestock Show Showmanship Summary...................................... 21
Upcoming Events ........................................................................................................................... 23
3
A Common Sense Approach to
Raising Beef Cattle
By Tammy Cheely, Warren County Extension Coordinator
As hard as it is for me to believe, I will soon mark the box on the survey at Winter School, that
says 20 – 25 years of service. Even though I grew up on farm with one of the greatest cattlemen I have
ever known and went to college to learn more about the science of raising beef cattle, it has been my
experience as a County Agent that has filled in the gaps and connected the dots to form the big picture of
the cattle industry for me.
Since the first beef cattle program that I presented as a brand new agent, the questions that I get
asked and the comments that are made from producers teach me something. Besides that, every farm visit
that I have made and every call that I have received has made an impression on me. I have seen producers
spend lots of money on genetics and technology and still not be profitable because they skipped the basics.
A few years ago, I put together a program from all these experiences that I call “A Common Sense
Approach to Raising Beef Cattle.” This program is ever evolving as the beef industry progresses, but the
base program always remains the same. I am going to hit the high points of the program in this article.
“Why Are You in The Cattle Business?” is the first question I ask when I deliver this program
and when I meet a new producer. You can imagine the variety of answers I get; anything from “to make
extra money” to “carrying on a family tradition” and everything in between. My point being this, the
answers change when you fully realize the goals of the individual producer.
“The Common Sense Approach to Raising Beef Cattle” addresses the following basics:
•
Calving percentage is the number one factor in the profit equation.
Focus on increasing it. All of the other basics will help improve
calving percentage.
•
Keep the correct records for the cow herd. Decisions are only as
good as the information they’re based on. How good of a decision
are most producers making with the records they keep? The
standard record sheet for a beef cattle herd is not completely
relevant for every cow herd. Record sheets need to be customized
based on the producer’s goals.
•
Cull based on records. It is the only way to cull effectively. The most
basic form of this is culling on age or observation records. One of
my most profitable producers culls based on the dollar value of
4
Photo
provided by
National
Cattlemen’s
Beef
Association
calves produced. That’s not for everyone and there many other records that can be used
just as effectively. Keeping the correct records makes this easy and effective.
•
Produce adaptive cattle. Simply put, cull cattle that don’t contribute to the goals of the
operation as it is and with the end product tailored to your market. The first step in this is
culling brood cows for uniformity. Then cull based on performance. Cull cows that
consistently have a lower body condition score with consistent inputs. A producer should
have a cow herd that fits their operation, their handling environment and their inputs.
•
Know the difference between high productivity and high performance. Keep this in mind
with every genetic selection. Growth and milk are the traits that I see that hurt producers
the most. High growth numbers in a replacement herd bull is a common selection
measure. This creates an increase in production of pounds of calf, which a good thing if
your brood cows can support it and/or you’re prepared and expecting to provide
supplemental feed to the cows and/or the calves. If the extra feed cost is equal to the extra
dollars generated from heavier calves, then what’s the point? The same principle applies
to increasing milk production in replacement heifers through genetic selection. They are
capable of producing more milk but they also require more feed and/or higher quality
forage.
•
Maintain an acceptable body condition score. Getting producers to learn the nine point
scale of visually appraising body condition is not a priority for me. I want them to
understand the principle and then tailor and simplify the system to fit their farm situation.
Then they can add it to their record keeping system and use it as another tool to make
important decisions.
•
Keep cattle immune systems healthy. Design a custom vaccination and
parasite control program. Maintain proper timing of vaccines. Have the
proper minerals available all the time. Maintain acceptable body
condition. Keep general observation records. Use cow psychology to
prevent stress in cattle and cattlemen. Stress in cattle reduces the
effectiveness of vaccines and makes them harder to handle the next time
around. Stress in cattlemen causes them to put off working their cattle.
All of this seems run of the mill and it is, except I see producers put off
working cattle a lot. It’s one of my favorite things to do so I didn’t
understand this when I first started this job. Once they put it off for a little
while, it’s easier to put it off until fall. Then it’s easier to put it off until
spring. Sometimes, their facilities cause them stress. Sometimes it’s the
cattle. The less you work them, the less they cooperate. Anyway, this is
an easy way to make a big difference a cow herd.
5
Photo provided by
valleyvet.com
•
Study, learn and practice cow psychology. This is better known as low stress handling.
This is my favorite topic to present a program on. Understanding and practicing this
makes takes the stress out of working cattle for everyone and only basic facilities are
needed. Facilities will never take the place of a good low-key handler. Helpers have to
follow the rules because consistency is vital. Cattle are creatures of habit; our
temperament and behavior are the biggest influences on their habits.
•
Maintain hybrid vigor. This seems so simple that I’m sure you’re thinking why even
mention this? A few times each spring and each fall, I’ll have a producer call me and say
“My calves just aren’t growing,” or “My calves just aren’t looking right”. We schedule a
farm visit. After looking at the calves, talking about their system and production
practices, it almost always turns out that they have bred Angus bulls so many times that
they have turned their commercial cowherd into a commercial Angus herd. They’re using
great genetics, but before they know it, the hybrid vigor is gone. I’m not bashing Angus
bulls. I have one myself, but every time that I have seen this, it has been with Angus.
•
Have a permanent drought plan. In agriculture, drought is a given. Over the years, I have
watched folks wait until we’re in a drought to get a plan. I’ve seen a lot of cattlemen wait
to see how bad it will be before they decide to face it. It’s better in every aspect to think
through a plan with a clear head and plenty of groceries. Write is down; make it detailed.
When it’s panic time, they’ll be glad they did.
•
Manage forages as intensively as you manage cattle. Keep the correct records for forages
just as on cattle. What was planted where? How much did it cost? Rainfall, fertilization
and quality should be included. Did it pay? Everyone thinks they will remember. In my
experience, they usually don’t. Build soil in the good time, so upkeep won’t break you in
the bad times. Don’t mechanically harvest any forage that cattle can harvest. Do whatever
it takes not to overgraze.
With the current record-setting prices, it is easy for producers to overlook some of these
basics. Regardless of what happens in the markets, why not manage as economically as possible.
All of these basic production practices are related. Improving one or more improves several of the
others. I believe these will increase profitability for all types of beef cattle operations. It all adds
up to more profit. In my experience, the most stubborn producer will pay attention when you can
show them extra dollars in the calf check. That is my BEST day at work!
6
Control of Nuisance Algal Blooms
in Ponds Used to Water Livestock
By Dr. Gary Burtle, Professor and Extension Aquaculture Specialist, UGA
Algae blooms are common in livestock watering ponds. But, when does the bloom get to
be a problem? In some cases, blue-green algae can produce toxins that cause animal sickness or
death. More commonly, thick scums (Figure 1) on the top of a pond may be unsightly or foul
smelling. Thankfully, toxic algal blooms are rare. Here are some preventative measures.
Several herbicides have been utilized to control the densities of algal populations. The
most commonly used algicide is copper. Copper is
available in several forms that include copper sulfate
powder, liquid copper complexes such as copper EDTA,
and liquid organic copper salts such as copper citrate. The
different solubility of each form of copper allows them to
be utilized effectively under different conditions. The
liquid formulations of copper usually stay dissolved longer,
so that lower concentrations are effective controls for algae.
Other herbicides for algae control include diquat, endothal,
and sodium percarbonate.
Figure 1. Blue-green algal scum
Recently, research at Mississippi State and USDA
and dense algal bloom. (Photo
compared
herbicides for control of certain algae. The blueprovided by Dr. Gary Burtle)
green algal species of concern was one that releases a
chemical that causes the off-flavor condition in catfish. Diquat (Reward) and copper (Copper
Control – product of Argent Chemical Laboratories, Redmond, WA) were effective at relatively
low concentrations for control of the blue-green algae. However, copper was not selective and
also killed desirable species of green algae. Diquat was less toxic to the green algal species tested
than it was to the blue green algae. Endothal (as Hydrothol-191) kills blue-green algae, however
it must be used more carefully than diquat because it can be toxic to fish at rates near those that
kill algae. Use the rate of application defined on each chemical label.
At Tifton, copper sulfate powder and sodium percarbonate were used in combination to
control blue-green algae. The combination was used in order to lower the amount of copper
sulfate necessary to control algae to as low as 0.1 ppm or 0.27 pounds of copper sulfate per acrefoot of water. That was accomplished when 8 to 25 pounds of sodium percarbonate (as PAK-27)
was applied after the copper sulfate treatment. Blue-green algae control was achieved and lasted
up to one month after treatment. Non-harmful green algae continued to grow with little effect
from this herbicide combination.
Herbicides are most effective when used together with other types of weed management.
For algae control, nutrient control is important to reduce future growth of algae after the herbicide
leaves the water column or decomposes. The algae use abundant nutrients and light in the
shallow ponds used for aquacultural production. Some fish species may be utilized to recover the
wasted nutrients from catfish feeding by harvesting the algae and zooplankton that utilize the
nitrogen and phosphorus the catfish do not use. Blue gill sunfish utilize algae and zooplankton as
food. Fish with a planktivorous diet, like threadfin shad, can reduce algal populations and
7
increase the diversity of species within those populations. However, stocking additional fish
species is not always possible. However, both the bluegill sunfish and the threadfin shad are
good forage fish for largemouth bass.
Correction of environmental conditions that may lead to nuisance algal blooms is also
needed for sustained control. Maintaining normal water levels in ponds will help. Limit the
access of animals to your pond in order to reduce nutrient additions. Fence the pond to allow
only one point of access. Allow a strip of grass to grow between the pond and sources of
nutrients. In some cases a water line should be run from the pond to a water tank so that animal
access to the pond is restricted. Over time, ponds recover from nutrient pollution, if the source of
pollution is checked.
Careful utilization of aquatic herbicides is the best way to control algae in fish ponds.
Use the lowest effective rate of application and apply for specific problems that are accurately
identified. Most of the county agents in Georgia are trained in aquatic plant identification and are
familiar with aquatic herbicides. Your local county agent is the best place to start to find answers
to your algae control problems. If you think toxic algae are present, ask your county extension
office to process a sample of the dense algal bloom for toxin presence.
8
The Southeastern Livestock
Producer’s Farm Bill Update
By Ray Hicks, Screven County Extension Coordinator
The following are provisions in the 2014 Farm Bill
that will apply to livestock producers. Please
contact your local FSA office for latest updates.
DISASTER PROGRAMS
The following four disaster programs authorized by
the 2008 Farm Bill have been extended indefinitely
(beyond the horizon of the 2014 Farm Bill). The
programs are made retroactive to Oct. 1, 2011.
Producers are no longer required to purchase crop
insurance or NAP coverage to be eligible for these
programs (the risk management purchase requirement)
as mandated by the 2008 Farm Bill.
Photo provided by Josh White, Georgia
Cattlemen’s Association
Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP): LFP provides compensation to eligible livestock
producers that have suffered grazing losses due to drought or fire on land that is native or
improved pastureland with permanent vegetative cover or that is planted specifically for grazing.
LFP payments for drought are equal to 60 percent of the monthly feed cost for up to five months,
depending upon the severity of the drought. LFP payments for fire on federally managed
rangeland are equal to 50 percent of the monthly feed cost for the number of days the producer is
prohibited from grazing the managed rangeland, not to exceed 180 calendar days.
Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP): LIP provides benefits to livestock producers for livestock
deaths in excess of normal mortality caused by adverse weather or by attacks by animals
reintroduced into the wild by the federal government. LIP payments are equal to 75 percent of the
average fair market value of the livestock.
Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish (ELAP): ELAP
provides emergency assistance to eligible producers of livestock, honeybees and farm-raised fish
for losses due to disease (including cattle tick fever), adverse weather, or other conditions, such as
blizzards and wildfires, not covered by LFP and LIP. Total payments are capped at $20 million in
a fiscal year.
NON-FARM BILL PROGRAMS
The following programs continue under laws other than the Act.
Emergency Conservation Program (ECP)
9
ECP is authorized by Title IV of the Agricultural
Credit Act of 1978, Section 401 (P.L. 95-334)(16
U.S.C. 2201). ECP provides emergency cost-share
assistance to farmers and ranchers to help rehabilitate
farmland and ranchland damaged by natural disasters
and to carry out water conservation measures during
periods of severe drought. Cost-share assistance may
be offered only for emergency conservation practices
to restore land to a condition similar to that existing
prior to the natural disaster.
Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP)
Photo provided by Josh White, Georgia
EFRP is authorized by Title IV of the Agricultural
Cattlemen’s Association
Credit Act of 1978, Section 407 (16 U.S.C. 2206).
EFRP was established to provide financial and
technical assistance to owners of non-industrial private forest land damaged by natural disaster to
carry out emergency measures to restore damaged forests and rehabilitate forest resources.
Farm Storage Facility Loan Program (FSFL)
FSFL provides low-interest financing for producers to build or upgrade farm storage and handling
facilities.
10
Preventing Grass Tetany in
Cattle and Sheep
By Dr. Jacob R. Segers, Assistant Professor and Extension Animal Scientist, UGA
As the days begin to warm and moisture
remains plentiful, grass is beginning to green up
and soon, assuming weather patterns hold steady,
lush green grass will be plentiful across the
Southeast. An increase in the growth of new
forage combined with spring-calving cows and
lambing ewes that are coming out of a long winter
plagued by energy-deficient hay creates a
nutritional situation in which there is an increased
risk of grass tetany. Grass tetany is a mineral
deficiency called hypomagnesaemia which is
Cow calf pair on lush green pasture.
characterized by low blood concentration of
(Photo provided by Janzen Family Farms
magnesium. Lactating females (especially heavyand Steve Redpath.
milkers) are especially susceptible because
janzenfamilyfarms.com)
synthesis of milk requires relatively large amounts
of magnesium and calcium.
Low blood magnesium concentrations are typically the result from consuming forages
that contain low concentrations of the element. Generally, soil concentrations need to remain
above 0.2% to avoid the risk of grass tetany.
There are several factors that can impact a plant’s ability to absorb magnesium. First,
low oxygen levels in the soil. This is often the result of long periods of rainfall saturating the
earth and forcing out oxygen. These conditions make it difficult for forages to absorb
magnesium. Also, certain nutrient combinations within the soil can inhibit uptake of magnesium
by forages. Specifically, soils that are low in phosphorus, but high in potassium and nitrogen are
likely to produce forages that can put cows and ewes at an increased risk of grass tetany. This
specific nutrient combination inhibits the uptake of magnesium by forage plants. Fertilization
with broiler litter during times of heavy rainfall can result in the aforementioned nutrient
combination; therefore, soil tests should be used to assess the risk of grass tetany in the pasture.
In many parts of Georgia, soils are very acidic. This condition converts some phosphorus to an
organic form that is not readily absorbed forage crops. When the soil pH is raised between 6.5
and 7.8 phosphorus is converted to its inorganic form and is more freely absorbed by the plant.
Symptoms of grass tetany include initial nervousness and muscle twitching followed by
staggers and downer cattle that, if left untreated, will progress to muscle spasms, convulsions, and
death. These symptoms occur because of the regulatory role that magnesium plays in muscle
contraction. Magnesium competes with calcium for binding sites when the muscle is relaxed but
opens these binding sites to calcium quickly when a neural impulse activates the muscle allowing
calcium to bind and the muscle to contract. When magnesium is deficient, calcium remains
bound to these sites and disables the muscle causing deteriorating paralysis that will progress into
muscles spasms, convulsions, and eventually death.
11
Prevention of grass tetany can be addressed in several ways. Magnesium deficient
pastures should be treated with dolomitic lime. The benefits here are two-fold. Firstly, liming
raises the pH of the soil and makes phosphorus more available to the plant. Also, dolomitic lime
is composed of calcium magnesium carbonate; thus, it directly contains two of the minerals that
become deficient in animals affected by grass tetany.
Fertilization alone may not be sufficient to increase
magnesium uptake by the plant when soils are saturated
and oxygen is depleted. Phosphorus fertilization may aid
in magnesium uptake by forages, as well as legume
inclusion in pastures as they are typically magnesium-rich.
Certainly, the most dependable control measure for grass
tetany in cattle and sheep is supplementation of a
magnesium fortified trace mineral mix during seasons
Treatment of Grass Tetany (Photo
when cattle are at high risk (i.e. spring and fall).
provided by National Animal
If animals do succumb to the disease a veterinarian should
Disease Information Service.
be contacted for treatment via intravenous infusion with
nadis.org.ud)
calcium gluconate. A list nutritional decision aids are
available at ugabeef.com/tool.html. For additional information and help with developing a
feeding strategy, contact your local Extension office (1-800-ASK-UGA1).
12
Spring Care for Horses
By Lucy Ray, Morgan County Extension Coordinator
With the weather warming up (hopefully!) and the seasons changing, there are several
key factors that horse owners should keep in mind. While the greening up of fescue and annual
ryegrass cuts down on hay costs, it also provides some challenges.
Spring pasture tends to be much higher in moisture content (75-85%), protein (greater
than 20%), energy, vitamins, and minerals, than at other times of the year. Energy content of
foliage can be as much as 40% higher during early vegetative growth, compared to the late
vegetative stage approximately 12 weeks later. For horses that are notoriously easy keepers,
overweight, or have some form of Equine Metabolic Syndrome, this lush grass can cause bouts of
laminitis or founder. With this in mind, keep an eye on horses that are overweight or prone to
laminitis and consider dry lotting them or using a grazing muzzle to limit intake. However,
horses that are kept on pasture year round face fewer problems than those who are confined to
stalls.
Horses that are kept primarily in stalls can face challenges when exposed to spring
pasture as these horses tend to overeat because of the palatability of green forage. As with any
dietary change, it is necessary to gradually introduce horses to new pasture growth in order to
avoid digestive upset. Over-consumption can put the horse at risk for certain nutrition-related
concerns such as obesity, colic, laminitis, and loose stools.
Founder (laminitis) - is always a concern when energy in the ration increases abruptly,
such as going from hay-based ration to pasture or sudden increase in the amount of grain
consumed (grain overload). Ponies, donkeys and easy keepers are more susceptible to this issue.
There are several ways horse owners may prevent or minimize problems when
introducing stalled horses to pasture in the spring. The first
way is to feed hay immediately before they are turned out on
pasture during the adjustment period. When horses have a full
stomach, they are less likely to overeat when turned out on
pasture. In addition, since they are not hungry, they will be
more selective about what they eat.
Secondly, restrict grazing time. Initially, horses
should be allowed to graze only about 30 minutes once to
twice a day on the first day of turnout. Grazing time can be
increased by 15 minutes per day until horses are grazing new
growth 4-6 hours a day and are accustomed to it.
Last, but not least, of our forage concerns is a
Grazing muzzles can limit over
reminder to eliminate endophyte-infected tall fescue from the
consumption. (Photo provided
diet of pregnant broodmares for the last 90 days of gestation.
by horsechanel.com)
Endophyte-infected tall fescue, present in either hay or pasture,
can cause late term abortions, agalactia (absence or faulty secretion of milk), and red-bag delivery
(premature placental separation) in broodmares. Novel endophyte varieties, such as Max Q, do
not have a negative effect on pregnant mares.
In addition to pasture, keep in mind that a proper deworming and vaccination schedule is
important to your horse’s health. Another side effect of warm weather is an increased insect
population. Mosquito-borne diseases such as Eastern, Western, and Venezuelan Encephalitis,
13
West Nile Virus and EHV strains, can be controlled by a good vaccination schedule. Spring is
also the perfect time to control tapeworms in horses with a dewormer containing moxidectin and
praziquantel (such as Quest Plus) or ivermenctin and praziquantel (Zimectrim Gold). Enjoy the
warmer weather and your horses!
14
Who is Ready to Start Planning a
Winter-Feeding Strategy…for Next
Year’s Cow Herd?
By Dr. Lawton Stewart, Associate Professor and Extension Animal Scientist, UGA
I know what many are thinking, “We just got done with one of the worst winters in a while and
you’re already thinking about next year?” As the temperatures are getting warmer and green
grass is coming up, it’s hard to start thinking about next year. However, if we look at historic
prices, and think about it, it makes perfect sense. A few points to consider:
1. Historically low feed prices. Traditionally, prices of common supplements, such as corn
gluten feed and soybean hulls are at their yearly low. Therefore, start watching prices in
May to see if prices are reasonable to book and/or take delivery.
2. Gives you a chance to look at forages. Start now, as hay is being cut and stored for next
winter. Since forages serve as our main source of nutrients. It is a great plan to know
what nutrients are available, and what gaps need to be filled.
3. Risk management will give you piece of mind. Building on the last point, its great to
know exactly the nutrients you have available, and the nutrients you need. That will
allow you to go into the winter without having to play a guessing game of how much
supplemental feed is needed. If you buy feed when everyone else needs to buy feed (in
the winter months), the price will be much higher.
4. Extra feed may be a good thing. I always get the question, “What if I book more than I
need?” If this whole strategy works, the feed should be cheaper when you buy it than
when you need it. Therefore if we get into next winter and find out we have more
booked than we need, there are several options:
a. , The contract could be sold for more than you paid.
b. If you’ve already taken delivery, there is potential to work a deal with your
neighbors (don’t be greedy!).
c. It may make an economic option for creep feed and/or ration for weaned calves.
Putting these strategies together can eliminate tremendous stress for next winter, but remember
nothing is perfect. There is always a chance for prices to go the other way. A list of commodity
feed sources and other nutritional decision aids are available at ugabeef.com/tool.html. For
additional information and help with developing a feeding strategy, contact your local Extension
office (1-800-ASK-UGA1).
15
The Grower Pen:
Georgia Youth
Livestock Programs
By Ronnie Silcox and Laura Griffeth
16
Participation In Georgia State
Junior Livestock Programs
By Dr. Ronnie Silcox, Associate Professor and Extension Animal Scientist
Georgia 4-H and FFA work together t at the state level to put on state livestock shows. In the
past year, County Extension Agents from 103 counties and Agricultural Education Teachers from
153 FFA chapters entered 4727 head of livestock as state 4-H or FFA projects.
The number of animals entered in state projects and the number shown at state shows by 4-H and
FFA members are presented in Table 1. State market lamb and market goat shows are held at the
Georgia National Fair in October. State steer, beef heifer, dairy heifer, market hog and breeding
ewe shows are held at the Georgia Junior National Stock Show in February. Entry deadlines for
the various shows are 3-6 months before the state show. As shown in Table 1, there were 4727
animals entered as state projects in all shows and only 3394 (72%) were shown at the state level.
Some of the animals entered do not make it to the state show for a variety of reasons, but most of
those are shown at other local shows and fairs. In addition, there are more animals that are only
entered in local shows.
Many youth enter more than one project, so the total of the exhibitor columns in Table 1 is not the
total number of individuals. During the 2013-2014 school year, 2462 youth entered animals in
state 4H/FFA projects. Of these 973 entered as 4H and 1488 entered as FFA.
Table 1. Georgia junior livestock show exhibitors and animals entered in 2013-2014.
Animals
Exhibitors at Show
Entered
Shown
4-H
FFA
Total
4-H
FFA
Shown
Shown
1102
773
400
373
436
222
214
Goat
318
239
183
56
122
93
29
Lamb
139
125
77
48
67
39
28
Ewe
1992
1411
530
881
996
337
659
Hog
252
188
72
116
167
63
104
Steer
535
367
131
236
306
111
195
Heifer
389
291
94
197
233
62
171
Dairy
4727
3394
1487
1907
*
*
*
Total *
*Total numbers of animals are the sum of individual show totals. Many exhibitors compete in
more than one show.
Table 2 contains the total number of animal entered in each show since 1990 when the Georgia
National Fairgrounds opened and state livestock shows were moved to Perry. The first state
breeding ewe show at the Georgia National Stock Show in February was held in 1995. The
commercial dairy heifer show began in 1997 and the state market goat show was introduced in
2006
.
17
Table 2. Total number of animals entered in state shows by year of show.
Year
Beef Heifer
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
476
504
344
520
623
695
785
788
739
728
723
761
803
923
905
898
900
921
903
805
732
683
644
608
535
Dairy
Heifer
82
167
261
289
336
359
319
280
300
311
307
304
283
307
328
340
355
389
Breeding
Sheep
58
47
69
57
56
82
109
91
113
96
95
118
111
162
133
134
150
116
100
139
Market
Goat
321
404
582
758
946
1061
1129
1102
18
Market Hog
1504
1869
1948
1838
2347
2518
2384
2281
2297
2070
1850
1887
1885
1919
1966
2014
1955
1953
1973
1835
1932
2007
2006
2058
1992
Market
Lamb
550
664
954
864
807
727
609
553
516
548
523
521
530
528
452
524
464
444
500
418
378
345
316
318
Steer
510
442
381
412
398
419
470
459
478
421
401
396
383
383
393
413
414
415
396
364
324
335
308
266
252
2014 Georgia Junior National
Livestock Show Summary
By Dr. Laura Griffeth, Webster County Extension Coordinator
Market Hogs, Judge Steve Nichols, Delphi, IN
Grand Champion Barrow
Reserve Grand Champion Barrow
Third Place Barrow
Fourth Place Barrow
Fifth Place Barrow
Abbi Rainwater Houston County 4-H
Madison Herndson
Toombs County 4-H
BB Brooker
Coffee County FFA
Jamie Burt
Colquitt County FFA
Austin Brown
Wheeler County FFA
Grand Champion Gilt
Chanleigh Underwood Jeff Davis County 4-H
Reserve Grand Champion Gilt Madison Herndon
Toombs County 4-H
Third Place Gilt
Shane Stephenson
Thomas County 4-H
Fourth Place Gilt
Lorren Herndon Toombs County 4-H
Fifth Place Gilt
Travis Tankersley
Madison County FFA
Commercial Dairy Heifers, Judge Doug Waterman, Madison, NY
Grand Champion
Jacie Babb
Reserve Grand Champion
Jentsen Wilson
Third Overall
Michaela Pollex
Fourth Overall
Justin Moate
Fifth Overall
Claudia Eastmead
Houston County FFA
Houston County FFA
Burke County 4-H
Houston County FFA
Burke County 4-H
Steer Show, Judge Kevin Jensen, Courtland, KS
Grand Champion
Reserve Grand Champion
Third Place Steer
Fourth Place Steer
Fifth Place Steer
Bo Bailey
Brett Dyer
Cameron Brinson
Maddie Dean
Lakyn Davis
Decatur County 4-H
Dade County 4-H
Colquitt County FFA
Crisp County 4-H
Colquitt County FFA
Crossbred
Crossbred
Maine-Anjou
Hereford
Maine-Anjou
Heifer Show, Ring 1 – Judge Dr. Clint Rusk, Stillwater, OK, Ring 2 – Judge Blake Nelson,
Warner, OK
Grand Champion
Reserve Champion
Third Place Heifer
Fourth Place Heifer
Lakyn Davis
Colquitt County FFA Angus
Heidi SeagravesJackson County 4-H
Commercial
Branson Beasley
Pelham FFA
Maine-Anjou
Drew Brooksher
W. Jackson FFA Simmental High %
19
Fifth Place Heifer
Hannah Bius
Commercial Reserve Champion
Bainbridge FFA
Breeding Ewes, Judge Tommy Strickland, Raymond, MS
Grand Champion
Reserve Grand Champion
Third Place Breeding Ewe
Fourth Place Breeding Ewe
Fifth Place Breeding Ewe
Ben Porter
Mason Simms
John Romero
Anna Ruff
Jim Waldrop
Grand Champion Born and Bred
Reserve Champion Born and Bred
Morgan County 4-H
Pickens County 4-H
Gordon Central FFA
Elbert County 4-H
Colquitt County FFA
John Romero
Gordon Central FFA
Claire Woodard Morgan County 4-H
20
2014 Georgia Junior National
Livestock Show
Showmanship Summary
Market Hogs, Judge Donna Hines, Quincy, MI
12th Grade
11th Grade
10th Grade
9th Grade
8th Grade
7th Grade
6th Grade
5th Grade
4th and 3rd Grade
Emily Royal
Dakota Scott
Morgan Pierce
Zane Kendrick
Dusty Jett
Joe Dan Mitchell
Colby Marchant
Chanleigh Underwood
Savannah Page
Master 4-H Showman
Supreme FFA Showman
Fitzgerald FFA
South Effingham FFA
Hart County FFA
Taylor County 4-H
South Effingham Middle FFA
Franklin County Middle FFA
Jeff Davis County 4-H
Jeff Davis County 4-H
Jackson County 4-H
Cody Corbett
Emily Royal
Echols County 4-H
Fitzgerald FFA
Commercial Dairy Heifers, Judge Doug Waterman, Madison, NY
12th Grade
11th Grade
10th Grade
9th Grade
8th Grade
7th Grade
6th Grade
5th Grade
4th and 3rd Grade
Jacie Babb
Monica Schaapman
Kesley Kohl
Justin Moate
Ashley Dooley
Grace Thomas
Allison McGarity
Morgan Chancey
Luke McFarland
Master 4-H Showman
Supreme FFA Showman
Houston County FFA
Wilcox County 4-H
Putnam County FFA
Houston County FFA
Summerville Middle School FFA
Houston County FFA
Elbert Middle School FFA
Burke County 4-H
Burke County 4-H
Monica Schaapman
Jacie Babb
Wilcox County 4-H
Houston County FFA
Beef, Ring 1 – Judge Dr. Clint Rusk, Stillwater, OK, Ring 2 – Judge Blake Nelson, Warner, OK
12th Grade
11th Grade
10th Grade
9th Grade
8th Grade
7th Grade
David Bridges
Chris Hart
Makayla Holmes
Brooke Smith
Gracie Frazier
Kade Mitcham
Oglethorpe County FFA
Oglethorpe County FFA
Gordon County 4-H
Echols County FFA
Colquitt County FFA
Piedmont Academy FFA
21
6th Grade
5th Grade
4th and Under
Baylee Steed
Payton Jackson
Maddie Dean
Master 4-H Showman
Supreme FFA Showman
Carroll County 4-H
Banks County 4-H
Crisp County 4-H
Kevin Edwards
Chris Hart
Gordon County 4-H
Oglethorpe County FFA
Breeding Ewes, Judge Tommy Strickland, Raymond, MS
11th and 12th Grade
9th and 10th Grade
7th and 8th Grade
5th and 6th Grade
3rd and 4th Grade
1st and 2nd Grade
Claire Woodard
Hannah Morgan
Gracie Johnson
Davon Painter
Mac Heuer
Landon Williams
Morgan County 4-H
Harris County 4-H
Laurens County 4-H
Pickens County 4-H
Greene County 4-H
Elbert County 4-H
Master 4-H Showman
Supreme FFA Showman
Hannah Morgan
Jessica White
Harris County 4-H
Mary Persons FFA
22
Upcoming Events
Date/Time
April 2 – 5, 2014
Event
Georgia Cattlemen’s Association and
Beef Expo
Location
Georgia National
Fairgrounds and
Agricenter, Perry GA
Tifton Heifer Evaluation and
Reproductive Development Sale
Tifton Bull Evaluation
Center: Irwinville, GA
Beef Cattle Reproductive
Management Workshop
Gordon County
Agricultural Center:
Calhoun, GA
Calhoun Heifer Evaluation and
Reproductive Development Sale
Northeast Georgia
Livestock Pavilion:
Calhoun, GA
July 10 – 12, 2014
Georgia Junior Beef Futurity
Georgia National
Fairgrounds and
Agricenter, Perry GA
July 24 – 26, 2014
Georgia Cattlemen’s Association
Summer Conference
Unicoi State Park:
Helen, GA
April 22, 2014 – 12:30 PM
Tuesday, May 27, 2014 –
5:30-9:00 PM
Wednesday, May 28, 2014 –
12:30 PM
23