Submitted by: Tatum Roberts, reporter
Natchitoches Parish is home to a number of 4-H members who love their livestock projects. On any given day, you will find these youth working with their animals in preparation for the next show. From horses, to cattle, pigs, goats, poultry and rabbits – large or small – there is a livestock project for everyone.
These projects focus on the care and feeding of animals intended for the production of food and fiber. At the same time, it creates discipline, builds character and teaches responsibility and sportsmanship. To enhance the project work done at home, Natchitoches 4-H offers youth the opportunity to join the Livestock Club. The Livestock Club is for any 4-H youth who have an interest in participating in any livestock project.
The meetings are held monthly with various educational programs and activities. This past year the club officers were: Zachary Birdwell, president; Layton Parks, vice-president; Madeline Mitchell, secretary; Tatum Roberts, reporter.
Members of the club were: Taylor Allen, Jake Broadway, Addison Ivy, Cole Johnson, Cooper Johnson, Georgia Kate Philen, Tripp Philen and Bayla Procell. The officer team worked with Mr. Randall Mallette, ANR Agent, to plan monthly meetings. These meetings featured guest speakers and hands-on activities.
Favorite topics included: cow reproductive systems, animal nutrition, feeds and rations, egg production and egg candling. In January, members exhibited their animals in a parish-wide livestock show. This show helped everyone prepare for the next stop – the Central District Show in Leesville.
Sponsored by Natchitoches Farm Bureau and judged by Dr. Ashely Edwards, it was a fun day with lots of prizes awarded. To celebrate the year of success, all gathered for an awards dinner in July. Members were recognized for their service to the club and accomplishments in their respective project. Awards included certificates, plaques and buckles. If interested in joining the Livestock Club, call the 4-H office at 357-2224.
