NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — From barns to show rings, producers and students say that livestock events offer economic opportunity and life lessons. Let’s take a look at some shows across the southeast in Georgia, Virginia, and Louisiana, showcasing the hard work and talents of rural youth in 4-H and FFA.
Virginia Livestock Auction Offers Financial Transparency
The Virginia Farm Bureau took RFD News behind the scenes at a local sale barn to see how producers pull off the often fast-paced functions. Despite the chaotic environment, the livestock auctions serve as a gathering for the entire community and beyond.
Alicia Hudson of Springlake Stockyard explained that there are substantial financial benefits for those looking to buy or sell livestock at these functions as well.
“You’re not going off what one person says,” she explained, “It levels the playing field here, and you have competitive pricing and true price discovery.”
These auctions are also known for operating on transparency, as all livestock are graded and checked so that the buyer has all the information needed to make the purchase.
Louisiana Student Reflects on Life Lessons Learned through Livestock Shows
The LSU Ag Center Livestock Show has concluded its run and remains a high point for 4-H and FFA students.
Craig Gauteax with the LSU AgriLife Extension spoke with Thérèse Harris, a young student who stepped into the ring for the last time. For nearly ten years, Harris has shown different livestock at these events.
“What I’ve learned is patience, a lot of patience, and how to care for another living being. There are so many people who don’t get that experience,” said Harris.
While Harris has retired from shows, she says the lessons she learned will last forever.
Georgia Brothers Balance Teamwork and Competition in the Show Ring
The Farm Monitor introduced RFD News to the Heard Brothers, who have been doing shows in Georgia for more than seven years. Peyton and Hayden Heard call their show cattle act the “Dynamic Duo” and have been raising their own herd since they were freshmen in high school.
While they share the workload in the barn, in the ring, it is competition.
“It pushes us to be better,” Peyton Heard says, “When you hit that ring, it’s go time. As soon as you come back out, it’s a team again.”
While the brothers have a friendly sibling rivalry, they agree that if either of them wins, both will take home the trophy.
