4-H Delivers

Technology Takes Center Stage at Tehema County's Traditional Event

The Issue

Livestock judging contests are common events within the 4-H program, and Tehama County is continually working on two major aspects: 1) to better prepare the participants so they can confidently judge a class of livestock and 2) to provide an engaging educational activity. This year Tehama County 4-H took on the challenge of these two areas.

What has 4-H Done?

The technology rich day began with a PowerPoint presentation on how to evaluate livestock. This presentation was developed by Celina Johnson, a professor at CSU Chico, and presented by members of the CSU Chico judging team and their volunteer 4-H leader, Crystal Rulon. The presentation was broken down into the different areas that members should focus on while judging and provided helpful pictures to illustrate these concepts. While watching the presentation, 4-Hers had the opportunity to vote using Turning Point Technology key pads, which similar to the ones used on the hit TV show “Who wants to be a Millionaire.” When the results came up on the screen showing how the members voted, the judging team members explained the answers and provided detailed reasoning. By the end of the presentation, everyone was ready to utilize their new found skills and start judging livestock.

The educational activity was a collaboration with Butte County 4-H YDP Advisor Matthew Portillo, who trained members of the Tehama County SET committee about intestinal parasites found in animals. At Livestock Judging Day, volunteer leader Debbie and 4-Her Maryn set up six microscopes so participants could learn how to use the equipment while viewing common parasites that are found among livestock. Maryn then gave a presentation about intestinal parasites, speaking about the effects of these parasites and the importance of treating animals. Participants also had an opportunity to view a parasite on a large screen with the use of a digital eye piece in the microscope. To top off the day, 4-Her Sierra Scholzen shared her ewe with the participants, who were then able to listen to the heartbeat and rumen with stethoscopes.

The Payoff

There were many positive outcomes from the day, including a better understanding of the livestock judging process, higher scores, collaboration with neighboring county 4-H programs, a continued partnership with CSU Chico, and positive media coverage.

Author: Lisa Humphreys