Missouri 4-H was strongly represented this year at the National Poultry and Egg Conference, Nov. 19–21 in Louisville, Ky.

Youth members showcased their skills in the Poultry Judging, Turkey BBQ and Chicken BBQ contests, said Kelsey Fuller, University of Missouri Extension state 4-H agriculture educator.

Missouri’s poultry judging team included Lance Jacobs, Harrison County; Carter Chidster, Lincoln County; Makennah Lavy, Lincoln County; and Ellie Butler, Lincoln County. Throughout several rounds of competition, participants evaluated production hens, presented oral reasons and judged raw and processed chicken products as well as market eggs.

The team excelled in the market egg division, placing third overall, missing second place by just one point, Fuller said. The combined Harrison County–Lincoln County team finished seventh overall, with Jacobs earning 12th high individual among competitors from 25 states.

Reflecting on the experience, Lavy said, “This experience has changed me as it has expanded my horizon of what I can accomplish. Going into this, I had never been involved in the poultry industry as my passions have always been cattle and sheep, but this has changed my perspective on poultry and how I have realized just what an amazing and powerful industry it is.”

The team credited their coach, Sean O’Brien, for their success, recognizing his “countless hours spent preparing, studying, encouraging and helping them consider pursuing poultry, 4-H and FFA-related careers.”

Missouri 4-H also earned strong results in the conference’s BBQ contests. Colby Anderson, Warren County, placed third overall in the Turkey BBQ Contest, and Landon Nelson represented Missouri in the Chicken BBQ Contest.

Source: University of Missouri Extension