Youth Development (Sierra County)

This year the Sierra County Pig and Lamb sold the highest amount ever. Breeders sold over 100 hogs and about 50 head of lambs. Many of the breeders are Sierra County 4-H members. The Pig and Lamb Sale was initiated by the agent for 4-H and FFA members to purchase livestock for show, locally. Pigs and lambs also came from Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Wyoming, and New Mexico. Over 200 individuals purchase their show animals at the sale with the majority showing in New Mexico. 14 4-H members assisted with the set up as well as several volunteer leaders. This year the Reserve Champion Sierra County pig was purchased at the sale along with many others that made our county sale.

54 4-H members, the agent, and their families participated in the 2007 Southern New Mexico State Fair held in Las Cruces, NM in early October. The agent advised members on feeding for show, preparation for show, and grooming equipment as well as organizing 4-H members and their projects. About 90 animals were exhibited and 21 members qualified for the junior livestock sell as well as having the Grand and Reserve Champion Steer. Youth in these projects learn responsibility, finances, and self-esteem that will assist in future endeavors.

The agent assisted Sierra County 4-H members at the 2007 New Mexico State Fair in Albuquerque, NM. 41 Sierra County 4-H members and families participated in the livestock shows and exhibits throughout the week. Sierra County boasts 3 champion animals having the Reserve Champion Limousine Steer, the Reserve Champion Saler Steer, and the Reserve Champion Mutton Cross Lamb. Sierra County placed 5 animals in the Junior Livestock Sale this year with a large number that received high placings. The youth exhibiting develop leadership skills, self-esteem, as well as livestock skills that will serve them later in life.

This year the Sierra County Fair was held during the second weekend of October. The agent along with fair board members set up and directed the fair where over 1250 people were in attendance. 112 4-H members exhibited livestock and exhibits at the fair with over 150 adult volunteers that make the fair possible. The agent takes and active roll on the Sierra County Fair board and committees including working with youth on projects, securing judges, taking entries, advertising, organizing and all other aspects of the fair. The Sierra county Fair is the largest agricultural event held in the county each year.

The agent along with the Sierra County 4-H council held a Turkey shoot fundraiser at the Sierra county shooting range to raise money for 2007 4-H activities. 38 members, 28 volunteer leaders, and the agent conducted the Turkey shoot were 4-Hers sold pie plates and shot the plates to win a turkey. On the day of the event shooters from all over the county competed in shooting matches at turkey silhouettes for turkeys. About 183 shooters attended the event and 112 turkeys were handed out.