Sale recognizes hard work put into raising animals

As the Phillips County Fair approaches, FFA and 4-H members are gearing up for a big event where they will reap the rewards of their hard work raising and showing animals that they can then sell at the junior livestock sale.

“It’s an opportunity for the community to support kids who have put such hard work into their projects,” said Jessie Stewart, Phillips County Extension agent for 4-H and youth development.

Market beef, goats, poultry, sheep and swine will be up for auction at the sale beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 24, at the Bank of Colorado Pavilion.

While it can be a bittersweet affair since the kids have often gotten close to their animals, the sale teaches them important lessons about the animal husbandry industry.

Stewart said there will be a sale order by species. She pointed out that one unique aspect that sets this sale apart from other sales she’s attended in larger communities is the fact that the kids write their own sale bios, which are read during the sale. This can outline who they are, their future aspirations, their plans for the money their animals sell for and more.

“It gives the buyer a unique perspective,” added Stewart.

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