Wool Judging Teams from around the country gathered at the National Western Stockshow for their annual Wool Judging Contest. The RBC 4-H Program put on the miles to be the only Wool Team to represent the State of Colorado at the national contest. Rio Blanco County 4-H was well represented by Ethan Summers and Blake Smith, who placed seventh overall as a team and individually 23rd and 28th respectively. Coach Silvia Smith said, “It was a wealth of knowledge for a rookie team to take away. Thank you to all involved in donating their time, energy and knowledge to further the next generation.” The Rio Blanco Team was specifically praised by a leader from another state complementing their “professionalism, positive attitude, and good manners.”
While wool has remained a staple agricultural commodity for RBC, the local 4-H program has not had a team for many years. Wool Judging is something that the RBC 4-H Program has revived over the past year. Since wool is an integral part of our community it is something that the local Ag Program should offer youth the opportunity to learn about. Recently the team received a grant from Colorado State University to support their judging efforts and travel. “These boys — I hope and pray there will be more teams coming up — but they won’t be able to do it without community support,” coach Smith said.
The team plans to continue practicing and attend a judging competition in Laramie, Wyoming, at the UW Animal Sciences Facility in April. “Being new to wool judging, I certainly have a lot to learn as a coach, but I’m undoubtedly sure we’ll get there. When kids like these are ready to come back hungry for more, I think it’s just a matter of time and experience.”
Any local resident interested in supporting our Wool Judging Team with fleeces to practice on or who has knowledge they would like to share please contact the Extension Office at 970-878-9490. Any RBC family interested in learning more about the RBC 4-H Program can contact the Extension Office at the number listed above or enroll in 4-H at 4honline.com. Enrollment is still open so come join the fun.
Special to the Herald