Harrison County 4-H’ers Compete in WV Purebred Sheep Breeders Judging Contest

Five Harrison County 4-H members competed in the West Virginia Purebred Sheep Breeders Judging Contest on Saturday, April 26 in Petersburg. The contest was held during the annual West Virginia Purebred Sheep & Goat Show and Sale.

In the junior division (9-14 years old), the team of Camille Deaton (15th), Hallie Deaton (13th), Seneca Deaton (10th), and Payton Lloyd (14th) finished second in their age division. Carver Deaton competed as a senior individual and placed fifth overall. Individual placings are overall individuals.

During this contest, participants identified sheep and goat equipment, as well as plants. They also completed a quality assurance station and a reproduction station. They also placed four classes of sheep based on conformation.

The Harrison County 4-H Youth Agriculture team was coached by Jennifer Friend, WVU Harrison County Extension Agent, and assisted by Beth Skidmore, WVU Harrison County 4-H Program Assistant.

In addition to the judging contest, Hallie Deaton was one of four who were awarded the Young Shepherd Award. Winners receive $1,000 to go toward the purchase of a breeding sheep or goat in a West Virginia Purebred Sheep Breeders sale. Hallie is using her award to purchase breeding goats to improve her herd of meat goats.

If you or a youth you know are interested in learning more about the livestock industry or agriculture, contact the WVU Harrison County Extension Office at 304-624-8650 or email Jennifer Friend at jefriend@mail.wvu.edu .

Editor’s Note: In submitted photo, (from left to right) Seneca Deaton, Hallie Deaton, Payton Lloyd, Camille Deaton, and Carver Deaton.