2024 Heifer Futurity Contest held

The heifer futurity contest gives youth an opportunity to learn about the cow/calf production part of the beef industry.

The heifer futurity program was visualized and started by local cattle producers to help promote the cattle industry to young producers. The program helps them understand more about the beef industry as well as gives them the opportunity to add to their own herd.

The youth will learn to select a heifer calf that will mature into a productive cow. They will learn the importance of genetics in selecting a bull to mate with their heifer to produce a calf with the genetics they would like to build in their herd. In doing so also taking into consideration ease of birthing, breeding, etc. so that they are producing a good and efficient pair.

They will learn that even though they may not have the prettiest cow, they can use the genetics of the bull to make the best pair.

Overall, the purpose of the project is for the youth to have a rewarding experience in which they learn beef production, genetics and responsibility in a project that can last two years.

Youth from McPherson and Edmunds County participated this year. The contestants have to fill out a Phase One booklet the first year and have an interview with the judges as well as bring their bred heifer with. For the Phase two in the second year, they also fill out a booklet and have an interview, after phase two a winner is picked. The heifer must be bred and then have had a calf the first year and then be bred the second year when they bring it back.

The winner of this year's contest was Mallory Schnabel from Eureka. Mallory is the daughter of Tom and Meghan Schnabel. The judges were Jenna Malsom and Alex Jung.

If any youth is interested in competing next year, contact Cassie Holtz for more information.