Extension Communications
3614 Administrative Services Building
Ames, Iowa 50011-3614
(515) 294-9915
4/5/00
News Release
Contacts:
Tom Baas, State Extension Swine Specialist, (515) 294-6728,
tjbaas@iastate.edu
Beth Minner, 4-H Youth Development Specialist, (515)
294-8617, x1bmin@exnet.iastate.edu
Tracy Peterson, Extension Communication Specialist, (515)
294-5672, tracyp@iastate.edu
4-H Swine Derby Weigh-Ins Approaching
AMES, Iowa -- Spring has only just begun, but 4-H'ers who intend to exhibit swine at the Iowa State Fair need to begin planning now.
By competing in the State Fair 4-H Swine Derby Show, 4-H'ers learn about rate of gain and carcass merit. Hogs are scanned to evaluate carcass measurements and then shown in a live class where visual appearance is rated. Muscle quality, color and moisture also are evaluated.
4-H'ers should note some key requirements if exhibiting swine: First, all State Fair 4-H swine exhibitors must weigh in and show derby hogs in order to show market hogs. All derby swine must be weighed between April 22 and April 29. The maximum weight limits for hogs are between 40 and 47 pounds depending on their weigh-in date. All animals must be ear-notched -- using the universal ear-notching system -- prior to weigh-in.
When selecting animals, youth must also remember that no more than four purebred and four crossbred animals can be exhibited in the market classes. For individuals who select hogs to show in derby classes, restrictions are six purebred and six crossbred hogs per exhibitor.
Detailed information on rules, premiums, swine exhibition requirements and information regarding weigh-in dates, times and sites are available at your local county extension office.
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Extension programs are available to all without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability.