The Southeastern Youth Fair Beef Heifer Show took place recently at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, located at 2232 NE Jacksonville Road in Ocala. The Showmanship Division of the Southeastern Youth Fair evaluates student exhibitors based on their ability to handle their heifers.
The Beef Heifer project is designed to provide experience in selecting, growing, developing, breeding, and managing breeding animals. This project typically begins with selecting a heifer calf that is nine months old or younger and requires feeding, developing, and maintaining ownership of the animal. Many participants go on to establish their own cattle herds. As a long-term project, it may take several years before any income is generated from the young exhibitor’s efforts.
Record-keeping is a vital aspect of the Beef Heifer Project and the cattle industry. Key records include the animal’s birth date, birth weight, weaning date, and weaning weight. Additionally, records track the heifer’s weight gain, the type and quantity of feed provided, vaccinations, herd health practices, and fertility and calving information.
As with all animal projects in the Southeastern Youth Fair, exhibitors must submit a completed record book to be eligible to show their animals.
