Putnam County 4-H’ers Successful with Poultry Project

Putnam 4-H’ers Successful with Poultry Project

By: Melissa Henry, 4-H Agent

 

Putnam County 4-H’ers recently participated in the county Chick-Chain show and auction. Earlier this year 4-H members had the opportunity to purchase a group of 15 chicks. They could choose between the Red Star breed or the Barred Rocks breed. Over the course of the summer the youth cared for their flock and learned more about proper chicken care and nutrition. To complete their project 4-H’ers had to select their 3 best pullets and bring them to the show and auction. The pullets were judged and winners for each breed were selected. 24 youth participate in this year’s show.

In the Red Star breed Skylar Williams received Grand Champion honors, while Will Sealy was named Reserve Champion. In the Barred Rocks breed, Maya Shepherd took top honors as Grand Champion and Madison Finn received Reserve Champion. Grand Champion for each breed received a $50 prize and Reserve Champion received $40 courtesy of Putnam Farmers Co-op. Manager Jere Cumby was on hand for the award presentation. In addition, Co-op presented each exhibitor with a $10 gift card to the local store. Putnam County 4-H appreciates Co-op for their support of this project.

After the show each pen was auctioned off with an average price of $15 per bird. Thanks to those in the community who purchased pullets and supported this project. Animal science projects like the chick-chain help young people learn life skills such as responsibility and proper animal care. Special thanks to Dr. Zac Williams from Tennessee Tech for serving as judge for the show and Nate Houser for serving as our auctioneer. Animal science projects are just a small part of the total 4-H program. For more information about this or other Putnam County 4-H activities contact our office at 526-4561. 4-H is a part of the University of Tennessee Extension and is open to all youth in grades 4 – 12.

Photo captions:

Chick chain BR:           Congratulations to the Barred Rock winners. (L to R) Gary Williams, Co-op livestock specialist, Maya Shepherd, Madison Finn, and Jere Cumby, Co-op Manager

Chick chain RS:            Congratulations to the Red Star winner. (L to R) Gary Williams, Co-op livestock specialist, Skylar Williams, Will Sealy, and Jere Cumby, Co-op Manager

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