CHRIS LOWREY
BRISTOL Aug. 16, 2018
Local 4H members got a lesson in judging beef cattle from local farmer Ryan Currie at Blacklane Farm on Aug. 16.
The meeting was one of several that have been ongoing in preparation of the Shawville Fair.
Typically, there is one meeting per month for the Shawville 4H Club, but in the weeks leading up to the Shawville Fair, those meetings become more frequent.
In order for members to be able to participate in showing events, they must attend at least four meetings.
The meeting at Blacklane Farm was geared towards educating participants about the basics of beef cattle judging.
Last week’s meeting targeted the younger 4H members and focused on small animal showmanship.
It started with some administrative priorities followed by the recital of the 4H pledge. After those formalities, each person was asked to identify themselves and their favourite type of pie.
After everyone was acquainted with one another, the group moved inside the barn where Currie was prepping two Black Angus beef for the night’s activities.
Once the animals were looking their best, the 4H members gathered around as Currie gave them a crash course in what makes a good beef cattle.
One of the most important things Currie highlighted is the feet and legs. Good cattle need strong legs and feet to support their massive frame.
He also pointed out that the animal’s hips and back have to be functional.
“They’re outside for 364 days a year,” Currie said. “They’re inside for one day to have a calf and then they’re back out.”
Currie then pointed out the need for wide pin bones, which make it easier for the cow to birth a calf. A good indicator whether or not the pin bones are wide enough is whether or not the cow’s tail sits between the bones or on top.
Currie explained the importance of the 4H members knowing their judging terminology.
Once he went over the different parts of the animal that a judge looks at, he invited the attendees to take an attempt at judging the animals themselves.
While there were a few volunteers who summoned their courage and judged the animals in front of the crowd, many others appeared hesitant.
“It looks like a high school dance,” Currie said of the youngsters standing with their backs to the wall.
In light of the nervous participants, EQUITY Editor Chris Lowrey was asked to take a shot.
A city-raised reporter posing as an expert on beef cattle sounds like a recipe for disaster, but thanks to the instructions of Currie – and the reporter’s handy notepad – the experience was minimally-embarrassing for all.
Be sure to visit the 4H booth at the fair for all your refreshment needs.
