County Bred Steer Feed Out
4-H and Youth Programming
Coy Mccorkle
EXTENSION EDUCATOR AG/4-H
Oklahoma State University
Wewoka
Abstract
The steer feed-out program in my counties is a collaborative initiative involving the County Cattlemen’s Association, 4-H, FFA, and the County Extension Office. Calves born to Cattlemen’s Association members are raised and fed by 4-H and FFA participants, with the program structured around four competitive categories: Average Daily Gain (ADG), Show Ring performance, Carcass quality, and Record Book documentation. An overall winner is determined based on combined scores across these categories.
The program spans approximately 160 days, beginning with weigh-ins at the county fair in the fall and concluding with weigh-outs at the spring livestock show. After the show and premium sale, steers are sent to a processor where they are indexed and scored for quality and yield grade. Participants have the opportunity to tour the processing facility, observe their steers post-harvest, and gain valuable insights into beef quality standards.
Once scores are tabulated, an awards banquet and beef auction are held. Prospective buyers are invited to purchase sides of beef, which can be custom-cut and packaged to their specifications.
Program Highlights:
- Seminole County: Running for 9 years, the program has finished 91 out of 119 head of cattle, with 63 sold for approximately $161,000 in proceeds to youth participants.
- Hughes County: Operating for 17 years, the program has finished 249 out of 307 head of cattle, with 214 sold for approximately $528,000 in proceeds to youth participants.
This program not only supports youth development in agriculture but also provides educational opportunities for the general public. Prior to the auction, prospective buyers are invited to tour the processing facility, view the beef, and learn about differences in quality and yield grades.
Additionally, the program has had a broader impact on local producers. Some cattlemen have made genetic decisions for their herds based on the quality of animals evaluated on the rail. What began as a youth program has evolved into an educational resource for cattlemen and consumers as well, fostering a deeper understanding of beef production and quality within our communities.
Authors: Coy Mccorkle, Casey Russell
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Coy Mccorkle EXTENSION EDUCATOR AG/4-H, Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma, 74884
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Casey Russell EXTENSION EDUCATOR AG/4-H, Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma, 74538