AMES, Iowa -- A new livestock judging program goes into effect in Iowa now for 4-H and FFA youth.  The program was designed by Iowa State University (ISU) Extension 4-H Youth Development, the ISU Department of Animal Science and FFA personnel.

Under the program, youth will be able to earn more recognition for their livestock judging accomplishments at standardized judging competitions during the summer of 2006. 

If the summer program generates enough interest, it will continue for next year's contest circuit (fall 2006 through summer 2007), according to Mike Anderson, ISU Extension 4-H ag program coordinator.

Anderson said, "Each year Iowa youth use decision-making, communication and leadership skills in evaluating classes of beef, sheep and swine. In order to showcase these exceptional youth, a program has been set up so that county teams and chapters can accumulate points throughout the year and earn year-end awards."

Summer 2006 awards will be presented at the Iowa State Fair. The top three teams and top 10 individuals from eligible judging contests in four divisions will be considered for the awards. Divisions include FFA (grades 9-12), middle school FFA (grades 7-8), senior 4-H (grades 9-12) and junior 4-H (grades 4-8). 

Contests must consist of at least six classes with two classes each from beef, swine and sheep. Each team must consist of three to four members with the top three scores counting toward the team total. For complete sanctioning rules, go to http://www.extension.iastate.edu/4H/Agriculture/ and click on the "Current Events" link.

An advisory committee made up of personnel from FFA, ISU Extension 4-H and the ISU Department of Animal Science formulated the rules and regulations and will oversee the program.

For more information on this new program, contact Mike Anderson at (515) 294-8617 or mikeande@iastate.edu.

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