Market Lamb shows are a very popular category among the many 4-H livestock shows. The growth of these events proves they are a fun and competitive learning environment for young people. The time and money 4-H members spend on lambs is an investment in these young students education and this investment will benefit 4-Hers throughout their lives.

This year, Logan County’s Lamb Show will be held on Wednesday, June 2nd at the Logan County Extension Complex. The weigh in for the show will begin at 4 p.m. and the show will start at 5 p.m.

By competing in livestock shows, 4-H members reap many life-long benefits, including setting goals, assuming responsibility, accepting disappointments, and improving social skills, among others.

For instance, youth start with a 110- to 120-pound lamb and take all responsibility for its daily care with the goal of having a 350- to 400-pound lamb prepared to show at the state fair. Daily care involves providing feed and water, cleaning the pen and bedding and exercising the animal. 4-H members show their lambs all summer long. This competition also helps 4-Hers build character as they accept not winning a show, or the periodic loss of a lamb.

Meeting new people and former acquaintances at the shows aids the development and improvement of social skills.

Showmanship awards are given to the individuals based on their ability to show and "set up" their animal. It is also based on the 4-Hers knowledge about their animal, as the judge usually asks questions about raising each lamb. It can also be based on the exhibitor’s appearance and disposition.

For more information about this year’s lamb show, or for a set of official rules please contact the Logan County Extension Office at 270-726-6323.