The Show Wether - Volume 1, Issue 3 - 2015 by Cowgirl Publications

Sept/oct 2015

Fall Issue

handling wethers prepping for a show differences in types

2 - The Show Wether

Table of Contents

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WHY DO JUDGES HANDLE WETHERS? Hands on approach allows judges to feel for muscle By Robyn Scherer-Carlson, M.Agr.

PREPARATION AT HOME KEY TO SUCCESS By Robyn Scherer-Carlson, M.Agr.

WHAT BREED TYPE MAKES THE BEST WETHERS? By Crystal Emsoff

SHOW RESULTS Missouri State Fair Colorado State Fair LSPA Futurity Kansas State Fair Iowa State Fair Nebraska State Fair

Sept/oct 2015

29 30

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Subscription Card to The Show Wether CHASING BANNERS

CONTACT P.O. BOX 250 • ELIZABETH, CO 80107 theshowwether@gmail.com • www.theshowwether.com PUBLISHER COWGIRL PUBLICATIONS LLC ROBYN SCHERER-CARLSON, M.AGR, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CREATIVE DIRECTOR cowgirlpublications@gmail.com • www.cowgirlpublications.com

Fall Issue

handling wethers prepping for a show differences in types

About the Cover

Congratulations to the champions and reserve champions in the 4-H and FFA divisions of the market lamb and meat goat shows at the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island, Neb. Photos courtesy of Nebraska State Fair.

Want to see your photo in The Show Wether?

Check out "Chasing Banners," where we feature YOUR show photos, in every issue! Submit your photos at theshowwether@gmail.com

The Show Wether is published bi-monthly. A one year subscription costs $30.00, or $5.00 for one issue by The Show Wether. P.O. Box 250, Elizabeth, CO 80107. The Show Wether hereby expressly limits its liability resulting from any and all misprints, errors and/or all inaccuracies whatsoever in the advertisement and editorial content published by The Show Wether and its said liability is here by limited to the refund of the customer or its payment for the said advertisement, the running of a corrected advertisement, or editorial notice. Notification by the customer of any errors must be made within 30 days of distribution of the magazine. Advertising copy received after deadline will not be returned for proofing. Changes to advertising copy made after deadline date will be allowed only if time permits, and will incur the appropriate charges according to time and materials involved in the changes. The opinions or views expressed in all editorials are those of the writer or persons interviewed and not The Show Wether. The Show Wether reserves the right to edit or refuse all material which might be objectable in content. No material or part thereof, may be reproduced or used out of context, without prior, specific approval of a proper credit to The Show Wether. © 2015 Cowgirl Publications LLC The Show Wether - 3

L etter From the Editor

WELCOME TO THE FALL EDITION Fall is definitely in the air, and for many of you, breeding season is in full swing. Here at my house, the bucks have been in with the does and the ewes since the end of August, so I am excited for January to get here to see the babies. This edition is the Fall Issue, and will be handed out at major shows/events around the country. This issue features an in-depth article on what judges are looking and feeling for when judging market wethers, advice on how preparation at home can make for a good show, and an explanation of the differences in club, commercial and registered sheep and goats, as well as show results from around the country. Keep sending in your events to be included for free in the full nationwide calendar of events, and send your photos from your fall fairs, jackpots and state fairs to be featured in the next issue of The Show Wether! I have had the opportunity to sponsor a few shows this summer and in the early fall, and I love being able to give back and support the youth in the show industry. I also want to say thank you again to the breeders and exhibitors who have handed out the magazine. I so appreciate your support of The Show Wether!

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Robyn Scherer-Carlson, M.Agr - Editor

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Calendar of Events OCTOBER 2015

10-17: NORTHERN INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION (NILE); MT. PAVILION BILLINGS, MT (S&G)

17: GRANBURY YOUNG FARMERS FALL SHOOTOUT; GRANBURY AG SCIENCE COMPLEX - GRANBURY, TX (S&G)

10: ARKANSAS STATE FAIR MARKET LAMB SHOW AND SHOWMANSHIP; ARKANSAS STATE FAIR COMPLEX - LITTLE ROCK, AR (S)

17: JODI WAXLER MEMORIAL JACKPOT; HAPPY COMMUNITY CENTER - HAPPY, TX (S&G)

11: ARKANSAS STATE FAIR MARKET GOAT SHOWMANSHIP; ARKANSAS STATE FAIR COMPLEX - LITTLE ROCK, AR (G) 12: ARKANSAS STATE FAIR MARKET GOAT SHOW; ARKANSAS STATE FAIR COMPLEX - LITTLE ROCK, AR (S) 11: BLOCK AND BRIDLE FALL EXPO; TOM GREEN CO. 4-H CENTER - SAN ANGELO, TX (G) 15: NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR MARKET LAMB & MARKET GOAT SHOWMANSHIP SHOWS; N.C. STATE FAIRGROUNDS RALEIGH, NC (S&G) 16: NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR MARKET LAMB & MARKET GOAT SHOWS; N.C. STATE FAIRGROUNDS RALEIGH, NC (S&G) 16-18: GRAND NATIONAL STOCK SHOW; COW PALACE, CA (S&G)

17-18: 7TH ANNUAL EAST TEXAS SHOW STAR SERIES, BEEF, LAMB & GOAT CLINIC AND SHOW; NACOGDOCHES EXPO CENTER - NACOGDOCHES, TX (S&G) 21: STATE FAIR OF LOUISIANA MARKET GOAT SHOWMANSHIP; STATE FAIR OF LOUISIANA FAIRGROUNDS SHREVEPORT, LA (G) 22: STATE FAIR OF LOUISIANA PROSPECT & MARKET GOAT SHOWS, MARKET LAMB SHOWMANSHIP; STATE FAIR OF LOUISIANA FAIRGROUNDS SHREVEPORT, LA (S&G) 22: ARIZONA STATE FAIR MARKET GOAT SHOW & SHOWMANSHIP, LAMB SHOWMANSHIP; ARIZONA STATE FAIRGROUNDS PHOENIX, AZ (S&G) 22: AMERICAN ROYAL MARKET GOAT SHOWMANSHIP; AMERICAN ROYAL COMPLEX - KANSAS CITY, MO (G)

NOVEMBER 2015 23: STATE FAIR OF LOUISIANA PROSPECT & MARKET LAMB SHOWS; STATE FAIR OF LOUISIANA FAIRGROUNDS - SHREVEPORT, LA (S) 23: ARIZONA STATE FAIR MARKET LAMB SHOW; ARIZONA STATE FAIRGROUNDS - PHOENIX, AZ (S) 23: AMERICAN ROYAL MARKET GOAT SHOW AND SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP; AMERICAN ROYAL COMPLEX - KANSAS CITY, MO (S&G) 24: AMERICAN ROYAL MARKET SHEEP SHOW; AMERICAN ROYAL COMPLEX - KANSAS CITY, MO (S) 24: R.G.V. HILL COUNTRY ROUND UP MARKET GOAT & LAMB SHOW; STARR COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS - RIO GRANDE CITY, TX (S&G) 24-25: "OUR SHOW FAMILY" PROSPECT SHOW SERIES EXTRAVAGANZA; LIVE OAK COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS - GEORGE WEST, TX (S&G)

7: SOUTH EFFINGHAM FFA ALUMNI GOAT SHOW; EFFINGHAM COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS SPRINGFIELD, GA (G) 7: GOAT AND SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP CLINIC; EASTERN OKLAHOMA STATE COLLEGE WILBURTO, OK (S&G) 7-8: NORTHERN EXPOSURE SHOW; YUBA CITY, CA (S&G) 13: OYMGA GOAT JACKPOT; COAL COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS - COALGATE, OK (G) 14: 5TH ANNUAL CEMENT CITY CLASSIC SHEEP & GOAT SHOW; MIDLOTHIAN AG SCIENCE FACILITY MIDLOTHIAN, TX (S&G) 14: CRANDALL COTTON BELT CLASSIC; KOUFMAN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS KAUFMAN, TX (S&G) 14: CALLISBURG FFA PARENTS CLUB 1ST INVITATIONAL SHOW; CALLISBURG FFA SHOW BARN - CALLISBURG, TX (G) 17-19: NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK EXHIBITION (NAILE) BOER AND JUNIOR WETHER GOATS; KENTUCKY EXPOSITION CENTER - LOUISVILLE, KY (G) The Show Wether - 5

Calendar of Events NOVEMBER 2015 DECEMBER 2015 12-20: NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK EXHIBITION (NAILE) SHEEP AND JUNIOR WETHER GOATS; KENTUCKY EXPOSITION CENTER - LOUISVILLE, KY (S) 20-21: FALL FRENZY OPEN JACKPOT SHOW; LAUREL FAIRGROUNDS - LAUREL, MS (G) 21-22: HARVEST MOON JACKPOT; BAKERSFIELD, CA (S&G)

5: CHRISTMAS BUCKLE BLOWOUT; WALLER COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS HEMPSTEAD, TX (S&G) 5: PEASE RIVER CLASSIC 4TH ANNUAL JACKPOT SHOW; WILBARGER COUNTY EXHIBIT BUILDING - VERNON, TX (S&G) 5-6: ROLLING HILLS CASINO BOERANZA; CORNING, CA (G) 12: DINOSAUR VALLEY JACKPOT SHOW; SOMERVELL COUNTY EXPO CENTER - GLEN ROSE, TX (S&G)

19: CALLISBURG FFA PARENTS CLUB 2ND INVITATIONAL SHOW; CALLISBURG FFA SHOW BARN - CALLISBURG, TX (G)

30: ARIZONA NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW JUNIOR MARKET SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP; ARIZONA STATE FAIRGROUNDS PHOENIX, AZ (S)

28: ARIZONA NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW JUNIOR MARKET GOAT SHOWMANSHIP; ARIZONA STATE FAIRGROUNDS PHOENIX, AZ (G)

S: SHEEP G: GOATS

29: ARIZONA NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW JUNIOR MARKET GOAT SHOW & JUNIOR MARKET LAMB SHOW; ARIZONA STATE FAIRGROUNDS - PHOENIX, AZ (S&G)

List Your Events! Please visit www.theshowwether.com/events for a full yearly calendar of events. You can list your show in The Show Wether and online for free! Send details to theshowwether@gmail.com

announcements THANK YOU: Thank you to The Show Wether magazine, for donating barn banners for champion and reserve lambs. We appreciate your support for the sheep industry and our youth. -Louisiana Sheep Producers Association

NAILE LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION ADDS JUNIOR WETHER DAM GOAT SHOW: This show is open to youth ages 6-21 and will take place on Wednesday, November 18, 2015. Questions should be directed to the NAILE office, (502) 595-3166 or kfecnaile@ksfb.ky.gov

SPONSORSHIP: The Show Wether was proud to sponsor barn banners for the Rocky Mountain Junior Show Series Finale, the Louisiana Sheep Producers Association Futurity, the North Texas State Fair Open Market Goat Show, the Texas Oklahoma State Fair Wether Sire, Wether Dam and Open Market Goat Shows, and the Virginia Showmaster's Circuit.

CORRECTION: The July/August 2015 edition incorrectly listed the Supreme Champion Wether Sire/Grand Champion Hampshire Wether Sire exhibitor at the Midwest Stud Ram Sale - Wether Sire and Dam Show. The ram was exhibited by Williams Show Lambs. The error was corrected in the online edition. We apologize for this mistake.

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Why do judges handle wethers? Story & photos by Robyn Scherer-Carlson, M.Agr.

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Judge Logan Newsom handles the topline on a market lamb wether at the 2015 Colorado State Fair.

Feature Story

HANDS ON APPROACH HELPS JUDGES TO FEEL FOR MUSCLE Judging a market wether is not as easy as it looks. A judge must be able to identify the desirable traits, the faults, and evaluate each and every wether against what the ideal wether should look like. One of the key factors in evaluating a wether is in the handling of the animal. When a judge handles an animal, he or she is feeling for muscling and finish, and without this hands on approach, a judge does not really know what the animal has to offer. “You are basically just feeling for muscle and firmness of finish, as well as expression of muscle. You can have lambs or goats that look smooth, and they handle firm, or some of them handle soft. When judges handle wethers, that firmness is what separates them,” said Mike Harbour, who is a market lamb and goat judge.*

Exercise is also important to creating the right feel. “Wethers need hard, fast exercise. Walking is fine for showmanship, but it doesn’t build an athlete,” he said. He added, “A lot of the firmness goes into your preparation at home. It is hard to win with a soft, fat one. You need a firm, fresh one.” Freshness is a common term used among judges. “In terms of freshness, that is a combination of the proper fat cover and firmness of fat. A wether that is fresh is a happy medium between too fat and too skinny,” Harbour stated. He continued, “Maturity also plays into freshness.

The rack, loin, rump and leg are all areas that judges typically feel. “Basically, on the topline, you are handling for the rack shape, how expressive the rack is, how expressive the loin is, and also for firmness and condition,” he said. When it comes to the rump and legs, volume of muscle is what a judge is looking for. “There are some that look thick and are not, and vice versa,” explained Harbour. While most judges will handle down the legs of a market lamb, not all market goat judges handle down the legs of the goat. “That is something that we do not see a lot in most goat judges, and I think they are missing the boat there. I do not know why we have gotten away from handling the legs, but I think they are missing a lot right there if they do not,” he stated. Creating that fresh, firm handle is what every showman should aspire for. In order to make that happen, an exhibitor has to work for it. Harbour gives some advice, “You need to feed a super high quality feed, and then utilize the proper additives. If one is thin, add a fat additive. If it is fat, add a protein supplement,” he stated.

Wravenna Phipps Bloomberg evaluates the loin eye area on a market goat wether at the 2015 Colorado State Fair.

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Animals that are too mature, they will not handle with the same touch. They are usually too thin or too fat.” For Harbour, the ideal finish is not about a number, but about the feel. The wether needs to handle firm at the end of the day, and the fat thickness will change from animal to animal. Handling a market wether is not the only way that a judge evaluates a market animal. “There is a happy medium when it comes to handling sheep and goats. Some judges over handle, and some do not handle enough. Judges get a little more carcass oriented when they over handle, but I like to evaluate the skeletal makeup as well,” Harbour explained. He continued, “How they look on the move, and skeletally how they move, that is important to me. Skeletal correctness cannot be manipulated with feed or exercise, but muscularly can be manipulated.”

not give the exhibitors a fair shake. He believes that judges who have raised or shown wethers make better judges, because they know that it takes all three areas – muscle, finish and skeletal correctness – to make a complete market wether. Handling every wether is important to Harbour. “I think it is a courtesy to each exhibitor that has showed up and paid the entry fee, and fed that wether, to handle it. I have judged for 30 years, and for the most part, I can sort without feeling them, but I feel it shows the upmost respect to that exhibitor and their parents to handle their animal,” said Harbour. He added, “It does not matter if there are only two in the class, it is all about integrity.”

*Mike Harbour owns Harbour Livestock, and raises market show sheep and goats. He will be the market lamb judge at the 2015 NAILE in Kentucky.

Having that skeletal correctness is the foundation on which every wether must be built. “Skeletal correctness is very important, and is number one on my list. We have to make them good from the ground up. Then we put on muscle, and then finish. True natural body width starts with rib shape, and they have to be great on their feet and legs. The muscle comes with the skeleton,” Harbour stated. In large classes, a judge may pull his or her top animals after a brief walk around the ring, and after handling each lamb or goat. “With a big class, I like to pull a few on the walk, as I like evaluating them on the move. When they are loose, if they look the part, it does not matter if they are set up, they will look the part when they are set up. Those that have the skeletal look I am looking for get pulled first. Then I get them lined up and handle them, and I go to pull on expression and the handle,” he explained. For a market wether, things such as size or color does not matter. “They are either good or they are not. I do not get hung up on optimum size. Completeness goes a long way,” he said. Sometimes inexperienced judges will select a wether based on a single trait, such as the one with the biggest top. According to Harbour, this does

10 - The Show Wether

Jenna Frink shows her champion lightweight market lamb at the 2015 Colorado State Fair. Evaluating market wethers on the move is important, as skeletal structure is the base for muscle and finish.

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Article

PREPARATION AT HOME KEY TO SUCCESS The entry fees are in, the hotels are booked, and the wethers are ready to go. It is time to go to the show. Showing wethers can be one of the most fun things that youth can do in a project. However, to be successful in the show ring, prepping must be done for months in advance. Nutrition is one of the most important aspects to an animal’s success in the show ring, outside of genetics. An animal that is too fat or too thin will not show as well as one that is in shape. Good nutrition cannot make up for poor genetics, but it will help each and every wether to reach its’ genetic potential. Market wethers should maintain a balanced diet consisting of grain and roughage. The grain should be a complete ration that contains between 15 and 20 percent protein. Higher protein feeds will be used earlier on, and then lower protein feeds as an animal reaches the desired weight. Protein will help the wethers to develop muscle. High-quality alfalfa or pasture should also be available to the wethers to keep the rumen functioning, as well as clean, fresh water. Young lambs and goats can be fed a medicated feed to help prevent coccidiosis, which can be a big

immune challenge to youth wethers. Wethers should be vaccinated against enterotoxemia (overeating disease), even if they received colostrum from a dam who was vaccinated. The vaccine is called CD/T, and treats for clostridium perfringens types C&D and Texanus Toxoid. In case of an emergency, it is best to keep the clostridium perfringens types C&D antitoxin on hand, in case an animal shows signs of enterotoxemia. Wethers (both sheep and goats) that are to be shown should be fed off the ground and on an incline, which will help to increase muscle in the legs. Feeders should be placed above the animal’s head, and include a step or an inclined board with grips for them to stand on with their front legs. Wethers need to be checked for worms on a regular basis, as stomach worms will inhibit an animal’s ability to gain weight. Signs of internal parasites include loss of appetite, a rough hair coat, diarrhea or general lethargic behavior. They should be dewormed as needed with an internal dewormer. External parasites such as lice can cause a wether to rub bald spots, and when the animal is clipped, scabs may be seen. An external dewormer should take care of any external parasites. An exhibitor should expect between a quarter to a half a pound of gain per day on goats, if the goats are managed properly. Lambs should gain between a half a pound and a pound a day. Wethers with great genetics and on a great feed program can have higher gains. Showmen should have an end goal weight in mind when they select their wether, feeding the animal to gain the necessary weight by the show date. Differences in frame size will determine how a wether should be finished. Smaller framed animals should be finished at a lower weight, and larger framed wethers should be finished at a higher weight.

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WHEN SHOWING MARKET WETHERS

Story and photos by Robyn Scherer-Carlson, M.Agr.

Market wethers need daily exercise. This can be done using a collar or halter and walking the wether, eventually building up to a run. Exercise will help the animal to build muscle, lose unnecessary fat and stimulate appetite. If the wethers will chase you, you can run or use a track to help exercise them. Never tie a wether to the back of a vehicle to exercise it, however. If the animal lies down or trips and you do not notice right away, you could end up dragging or hurting it. Wethers should be exercised on a regular basis. In the hotter months, it is best to exercise in the early morning or late evening, when it is not hot. Make sure to offer the wether plenty of water during and after exercise to prevent dehydration. Exercising wethers also helps them get to know the showman, and they are more likely to cooperate in the ring because they are used to being handled. Market lambs should be taught to lead with hands, and market goats with a collar. Both should be taught how to brace. The general appearance of the wether is also important to a judge, especially in showmanship. Wethers should be healthy and free of disease. If you have an animal that is coughing, has nasal discharge or generally appears sick, you should not take it to a show. You must stop the spread of disease. Most shows will have a veterinarian on staff who will inspect animals as they unload, but a sick wether that is not showing signs of sickness could still be admitted, and will then get other animals sick. Hooves should be trimmed every six to eight weeks, especially on goats. Uneven hooves can cause stress on joints and legs, eventually causing lameness. It is best to trim a goatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hooves a week before the show. Then the wether has time to heal if the hooves are cut too short, which could cripple the animal. Many market shows require goats to be dehorned. This should be done between 14 and 28 days of age. The older a goat gets, the more stress it causes and

the more dangerous it is. Older, mature animals with horns may need to be tipped. This can be done using a rasp to dull the end of the horns. Not all shows require this, so it is best to check. It is best to tip three to four weeks in advance of the show, to allow time for healing. Many major shows require a wether to be closely shorn. It is best to know the rules for your show before you ever pick up the clippers. Wethers should be clipped five to seven days before the show, as this gives the hair a little time to grow out and cover clipping tracks. This also allows time for pink skin to become less apparent. Before clipping, it is best to wash the wether to remove any dirt and grime that can clog the

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13 - The Show Wether

clippers. Wash the wether using a mild soap and warm water, and rinse and dry the animal thoroughly. For most shows, clip the entire body, except for the legs from the knees or hocks down. When clipping, it is best to use electric clippers with a 20- or 23-tooth comb to help minimize clipping tracks. Run the clipper parallel to the wether from shoulder to hip, rather than vertically.

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A lamb/goat sock or blanket should then be placed on the wether, to keep it warm if it is cold and to keep the animal clean. It is best to bed clipped animals in clean, well-bedded pens to keep them warm and dry. Showing wethers can be fun for youth of all ages. Preparation, as well as knowledge of the show rules, can help a showman be successful.

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Article

WHAT BREED TYPE MAKES FOR THE BEST WETHERS? By Crystal Emsoff

Show wether, club lamb, market goat… Wether sire and wether dam... Registered or purebred... The terminology thrown around in sheep or goat circles can make a new showman dizzy! What do all these terms mean and how are they all different from one another? Beginners are often under the wrong impression that all they need to do is find a lamb or goat of the right breed, and they are good to go. Unfortunately, it’s not quite that simple! Sheep and goats come in different "types" under the same breed, and knowing the differences can make or break a market wether project. First, some definitions that are commonly used: Purebred – An animal bred from parents of the same breed or variety. If both parents are Hampshire, a lamb is purebred Hampshire. If both parents are Boer, a goat is purebred Boer. Registered – An animal that is registered with an established breed association. Most registered animals are purebreds, but some breed associations allow percentage or appendix registration of

Commercial Hampshire Ram "Sabermatic" is the highest ranking NSIP (National Sheep Improvement Program) Hampshire ram lamb as of August 2015. Sabermetric was raised by his 13 month old dam and he gained more than 1 lb/ day until 5 months age and had a loin eye of 3.4 sq inches at 120 lbs. He is bred and owned by Drewry Club Lambs in Minnesota.

crossbred animals as well. Crossbred – An animal with two or more (or unknown) breeds in its genetic background. Now that we understand a few basic terms, we will learn about the three basic types of sheep or goats. Simply knowing the breed of the sheep or goat is not enough, as often all three types can be found within the same breed. Commercial The commercial type of sheep or goats is typically not used for show purposes. These animals are selected primarily for production traits such as growth rate, muscling, feed efficiency and prolificacy, with only minor emphasis place on physical appearance. Some breeder are using quantitative data such as Estimated Breed Values (EBVs) in their selection decisions. These animals typically are very efficient, but they will not have the structure or physical attributes necessary to place well in the show ring. They generally tend to be too heavy shouldered and rough in their top lines to

Club/Market/Show Hampshire Ram "Maximus" is a Hampshire wether sire used to produce club lambs. He has moderate size, balance and extreme muscling down his back and through his rear leg. Maximus was bred by Chabot Show Lambs in Texas and is currently owned by Emsoff Livestock Company, Three Sisters Sheep and Sherrill Club Lambs.

Registered/Frame Hampshire Ram A Hampshire "frame" sheep, often referred to as a "registered" sheep. Note his large frame size (height), fitted wool and breed character. These sheep are not braced when shown. This ram was bred by Paradigm-Beaver Creek Ranch in California.

15 - The Show Wether

compete well as show animals, regardless of how they are fed or exercised. Commercial sheep and goats may or may not be purebred or registered. Club/Show/Market Lamb/Goat These terms are all used interchangeably. These are lambs and goats bred specifically for FFA and 4-H club members (hence the name, "club lamb") to show at fairs and jackpots as market (meat) animals. Great selection emphasis is placed on the physical appearance of the animal, including structure, muscling and style. Breed characteristics, however, are typically of minor importance. Breeding females of this type, regardless if they are sheep or goats, are called "wether dams" and breeding males are called "wether sires." As with commercial animals, these may or may not be purebred or registered. These lambs and goats are always shown slick sheared, usually braced. The breeds used will vary by region, but Hampshire sheep and Boer goats, or crosses involving these two breeds, are most common. Registered/Frame Sheep/Goats This is where things can really start to get confusing. While registered sheep or goats can be found in all three categories, when talking in the show world, registered sheep or goats typically implies that they are selected heavily for breed

Commercial Boer Buck Breed characterists and style are of minor importance to the commercial meat goat breeder. Instead, economically important traits such as growth rate and kidding rate are a higher priority. Commercial bucks are sometimes fullbloods, and sometimes crossbreds. Photo by Robyn Scherer-Carlson 16 - The Show Wether

characteristics, such as color, horns, pigment, ear shape, wool type, etc. In sheep, most registered sheep are considered "frame sheep" meaning they are selected to be very large framed (in other words, tall). Most breeds of sheep are usually shown with their wool fitted (shaped), though a few, notably the Southdown and Shropshire, are always shown slick shorn. In goats, registered Boers can be percentages (50-93.99 %, does only), purebred (94-99.99% for does, 97%-99.9% for bucks) or fullblood (100%). Registered goats are generally shown fitted, with the neck closer clipped than the body. These animals are always shown as rams/bucks and ewes/does in breeding classes. They are never shown as market animals. When selecting your show prospect, make sure you are buying a lamb or kid from a breeder that is breeding the type of animal you need. If you are going to show a market animal, make sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s from a club lamb or show goat breeder. Not only will your animal be of the correct type, the breeder will likely be familiar with the feeding, exercise and training requirements of your wether and will be able to offer you support throughout your project.

**Crystal Emsoff is a club lamb breeder and owner of Emsoff Livestock Company.

Club/Market/Show Boer Buck "MOTO Venom" is a great example of a wether style buck. A "wether sire" buck, used to produce show wethers, should have a tall, extended front, a strong topline and exceptional muscling. They are shown braced and clipped. Venom is owned by Hard Chargin' Boers in Texas. Photo courtesy of Robert Ramirez

Registered Boer Buck Breed characteristics, such as horn shape and skin pigmentation are important selection criteria in registered Boer goats. This buck, named 2SONS Secretariat, is owned by MM Boer Goats in Colorado, and is a registered fullblood Boer. Photo courtesy of Madessa Hoffer-Dye

In This Issue: MIssouri state fair colorado state fair LSpA Futurity Kansas State Fair Iowa State Fair Nebraska state fair

17 - The Show Wether

August 14-17, 2015

Missouri State Fair

Sedalia, MO

Market Lamb & Market Goat Shows

LAMB JUDGE: TODD WIDE; GOAT JUDGE: BRYAN BERNHARD PHOTOS BY: SHOW PHOTO BY KATINA

G ra nd C ha m pi o n O ve ra l l M a r k e t L a m b G ra nd C h a m pi o n 4 - H M a r k e t L a m b Syd n e y To m l i n

Grand C ham p io n O verall M ar ket G oat Grand C ham p io n F FA M ar ket G oat Trent K em p ker

R e se r ve G ra nd C h a m p i o n O ve ra l l M a r k e t L am b G ra nd C h a m pi o n FFA M a r k e t L a m b K ay l a M a r row

R eser ve Grand C ham p io n O verall M ar ket G oat Grand C ham p io n 4- H M ar ket G oat Shanno n D eHaan

18 - The Show Wether

Colorado State Fair

August 28, 2015

Pueblo, CO

Market Goat Show

JUDGE: WRAVENNA PHIPPS BLOOMBERG PHOTOS BY: SHOW PHOTO BY KATINA

Grand Champion Market Goat, Ch. Heavyweight J a kob Ju u l

Res. Champion Market Goat, Ch. Mediumweight Cam ro n Shep herd

Cham p i o n L ight wei ght M a r ket G oat J ako b J uu l

R ese r ve C ha mp i on H e av y we i g ht B e n We i n ro th

R e s e r ve Cham p i o n M edi umweight B en Wei nro t h

R eser ve Cham p i o n Lig ht weig ht Tanner Fet zer The Show Wether - 19

August 30, 2015

Colorado State Fair

Pueblo, CO

Market Lamb Show JUDGE: LOGAN NEWSOM

PHOTOS BY: SHOW PHOTO BY KATINA

G ra nd C h a m pi o n M a r k e t L a m b Ch a mp i on H e av y we i g ht B l a ck fa ce M a r k e t L am b Al ys s a D e Po r te r

R eser ve Grand Cham p i o n M ar ket Lamb Cham p i o n M iddlewei ght B lac kf ace M ar ket La mb K ay la Fr i nk

R eser ve C ha mp i on H e av y we i g ht Bl a ck f a ce M a r ket L am b Je n n a Fr i n k

R eser ve Cham p i o n M iddlewei ght B lac kf ace M ar ket La mb K ay la Fr i nk

20 - The Show Wether

C ha m p i on Li ght we i g ht B l a ck fa ce M a r k e t L am b Je n n a Fr i n k

R eser ve Cham p i o n L ight wei ght B lac kf ace M a r ket La mb Cai t ly n Ander so n

C ha mp io n D o rs e t M a r k e t L a m b R y l i e An d e rs o n

R eser ve C ham p io n D o r set M ar ket La mb Cal Sidwell

C ha mp i on Sp e ck l e d Fa ce M a r k e t L a m b L a u re n Fr i n k

R eser ve Cham p i o n Sp ec k led Face M ar ket La mb K aleb M c lain

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L ouisiana Sheep Producers Association Futurit y

August 29, 2015

Crowley, LA

Market & Prospect Lamb Shows JUDGE: DERICK CHABOT

PHOTOS BY: SCOTTEY & SHELLEY PREJEAN

O verall Supreme; Grand Champion Prospec t Loga n G ou ti e r re z

R e s er ve C ham p io n Pro sp ec t M ac kensi e Cast ro

Third O verall Pros pec t M ac kenz ie Cas tro

Gra nd C ha mp io n M a r k e t Ed e n S c hex n ayd e r

R e ser ve C ham p io n M ar ket M ac kenz ie Cast ro

Third O verall M ar ket G avi n Guib e a u x

22 - The Show Wether

Sept. 12-13, 2015

Kansas State Fair

Hutchinson, KS

Market Lamb & Meat Goat Shows

LAMB JUDGE: MARVIN ENSOR; GOAT JUDGE: CRAIG COBURN PHOTOS BY: JIM MEYER

G ra nd C h a m pi o n M a r k e t L a m b Neal Ehler

Grand C ham p io n M ar ket G o at Luke Falkenstein

R e se r ve C h a m pi o n M a r k e t L a m b Sh i l o Sh a a k e

R eser ve Grand Cham p i o n M ar ket G oat K ac i Fo raker

The Show Wether - 23

August 13-20, 2015

Iowa State Fair

Des Moines, IA

Market Lamb & Meat Goat Shows

LAMB JUDGES: JORDAN AMBURGERY & ALLEN HYBSHA; GOAT JUDGE: DR. BRIAN FARIS PHOTOS BY: IOWA STATE FAIR

Grand Champion 4-H Market Lamb S he l by K a r r

Grand Champion FFA Market Lamb Eliz ab et h Zub er

Grand Champion 4-H Meat Goat R y land M c Cor mick

Reser ve Champion 4-H Market Lamb B rooke Ku e s e l

Reser ve Champion FFA Market Lamb K ac i K eit zer

Grand Champion FFA Meat Goat K o lto n M alone

24 - The Show Wether

September 5-7, 2015

Nebrask a State Fair

Grand Island, NE

Meat Goat Show

4-H JUDGE: LOGAN NEWSOM; FFA JUDGE: MILES GIBBS PHOTOS BY: NEBRASKA STATE FAIR

Gra nd C h a m p i o n 4 - H M e at G o at Co ra Svo bo d a

Grand C ham p io n F FA M eat G o at Alyssa Ham b leto n

R e se r ve C h a m pi o n 4 - H M e at G o at An d re a Pe l s te r

R eser ve Cham p i o n F FA M eat G oat M ar i ssa K egley

The Show Wether - 25

September 5-7, 2015

Nebrask a State Fair

Grand Island, NE

Market Lamb Show

4-H JUDGE: JORDAN AMBURGEY; FFA JUDGE: MILES GIBBS PHOTOS BY: NEBRASKA STATE FAIR

G ra nd C h a m pi o n 4 - H M a r k e t L a m b C ha mp i on Cro s s b re d 4 - H M a r k e t L a m b C h a n d l e r S ch e l k o p f

Grand Cham p i o n F FA M ar ket L amb C ham p io n M iddlewei ght M ar ket La mb J acque M urdo c h

R e se r ve C h a m pi o n 4 - H M a r k e t L a m b C ha mp i on H a m p s h i re 4 - H M a r k e t L a m b R ya n L i a k o s

R eser ve Cham p i o n F FA M ar ket L a mb Cham p i o n L ight wei ght F FA M ar ket La mb Chandler S c helko p f

26 - The Show Wether

C ha m p i o n 4 - H AO P M a r k e t L a m b S a ra h M ccow n

C ham p io n F FA Heav y weight M ar ket La mb Pay to n Flower

C ha m p i on 4 - H Wh i te f a ce M a r k e t L a m b Ja ck s o n Al l e n

C ham p io n F FA Carc ass M ar ket L amb S o p hia Lent fer

C ha m p i on 4 - H Su f fo l k M a r k e t L a m b K r y n n Ar bu ck

R eser ve C ham p io n F FA Carc ass M ar ket La mb B ailey Wi nk

The Show Wether - 27

September 20, 2015

Nebrask a State Fair

Grand Island, NE

Breeding Sheep & Goat Shows JUDGE: MILES GIBBS

PHOTOS BY: NEBRASKA STATE FAIR

S up re m e C h a m pi o n FFA Ewe G ra nd C h a m pi o n Co m m e rci a l Ewe Ja cq u e M u rd o ch

Grand Cham p i o n B reeding D o e Grand C ham p io n Co m m er i c al B reeding D oe Alyssa Ham b leto n

S up re m e C h a m p i o n FFA R a m Gra nd C h a m pi o n H a m ps h i re R a m Al ys s a H a m b l e to n

R eser ve Cham p i o n B reeding D oe R eser ve Grand C ham p io n Co m m er i c al B reeding D oe Alyssa Ham b leto n

28 - The Show Wether