Vail Daily column: Junior livestock auction demonstrates determination
Special to the Daily |
Editor’s note: This column, submitted by Vail Resorts, showcases the nonprofits that the company supports through its Vail Resorts Echo program.
EDWARDS — The culmination of nearly a year’s worth of hard work, determination and fortitude by 4-H Club members was seen at the Eagle County Fair Junior Livestock Auction last month. Members of 4-H have been feeding, grooming, exercising and caring for more than 100 animals during the past year — and beyond. Grand Champion Rabbit winner Autumn Russ has raised a variety of animals for the past several years.
“I enjoy the 4-H community and all the friends I have made over the last three years,” she said. “I work hard learning how to raise my animals.”
All animals sold at the auction are carefully raised with the consumer in mind, checking in at the ideal weight with a large amount of muscle and a sound structure. Buyers came from all corners of the state to bid on the quality livestock.
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“This year was my first year raising a turkey and my third raising rabbits,” Russ said. “It is very rewarding. The generosity of the junior livestock buyers has given me a chance to save for college and maybe a car.”
The Eagle County Fair serves as the culminating event for all 4-H Club members, not only those participating in the livestock arena. 4-H Club projects such as clothing, cake decorating, shooting sports, cooking and veterinary science were also exhibited and judged during the week-long event. Grand Champion projects made their way to Pueblo this month to be judged and displayed at the Colorado State Fair.
Our hats are off to the amazing supporters, contributors — including Vail Resorts — and volunteers that make the 4-H Club program possible in Eagle County!
To learn more about 4-H, visit http://www.eagle county.us/CSU/, like us on Facebook or call 970-328-8630.
Jenny Leonetti is the Eagle County 4-H extension agent. Through Vail Resorts Echo, Vail Resorts hopes to connect its communities to its efforts — from on the ground conservation programs to grants for local schools. Aimed at both protecting the natural resources that surround the resorts and helping build stronger communities where its employees live and work, Vail Resorts Echo encompasses three core efforts: environmental stewardship, charitable giving and community engagement. Learn more at http://www.vailresortsecho.com.