The Sioux Empire Farm Show is held January 24- 28, 2012 at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds in Sioux Falls, SD.  This event is host to numerous livestock shows, sales, and educational events for beef, goat, horse, sheep and swine enthusiasts.  For a full schedule of events check out the Sioux Empire Farm Show website.

Youth are encouraged to attend the Junior Judging Contest held on Saturday, January 28 at 10 a.m.  This event is open to students who are current 4-H and FFA members; however college or post secondary education students are not eligible.  Teams will consist of four individuals; all four scores on a team will be counted toward the team score.  Contestants will judge a total of 8 classes which will consist of breeding and market classes for beef, goat, sheep, and swine; classes will depend on availability of livestock selected.  Winners will be announced following the contest.  Awards will be given to the top ten teams and top ten individuals.

Participating in livestock judging is an excellent way to strengthen youth’s knowledge of the livestock industry and develop their critical thinking and communication skills.  The Sioux Empire Farm Show contest is a great way to kick of the 2012 judging year and start practicing for area and state judging contests.  Contact your 4-H or FFA leader to join a livestock judging team and get involved!

Contest and registration information will be provided soon, check the Sioux Empire Farm Show website for more details.