As the New Mexico Statewide 4-H Conference concludes this week at New Mexico State University, youth participants first tested their skills at district conferences across the state, including the Northeast and Northwest District Contest in Clayton, New Mexico.
Participants gathered for a day of friendly competition and learning. The annual event brought together novices and juniors to test their skills in various contests at the Union County Fairgrounds. Contests included horse judging, where participants evaluated horses' conformations, and livestock judging, where contestants scrutinized cattle, sheep, and pigs to determine which animals best exemplified their breeds. Entomology enthusiasts examined insect collections and evaluated the correct name, class, and order of each insect.
In the meat contest, novices and juniors identified different cuts and grades. In the Family and Consumer Sciences area, participants displayed culinary creations and sewing projects.
The excitement built toward the awards ceremony. For novices and juniors in 4-H, this was their state contest showcasing what they learned over the year. For seniors, it was a practice contest preparing them for the State 4-H conference in Las Cruces.
After the ceremony, Oliver Schwebach, a young contestant with an interest in entomology and horse judging said, “I learned so much today. I didn’t win, but I can’t wait to come back next year and try again.” His words captured the spirit of camaraderie, learning, and participation.
“The Northeast and Northwest District Contest in Clayton was more than just a competition; it was a place where young minds were nurtured, skills were honed, and dreams were achieved,” said Christina Turner, Extension Northern District department head.
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Written by Jordan Hamill
CUTLINE: Oliver Schwebach (right) and Christina Turner identify insects at the New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service Northeast and Northwest District Contest June 25 in Union County. (NMSU Photo by Jordan Hamill)