Over 400 young pig enthusiasts gathered for the Junior Swine Producer Day at the Kansas State University (KSU) Weber Arena in Manhattan, KS over the weekend of March 12-13. The day-long program targets youth, parents and swine project leaders.
The newly updated “Show Pig Guide” was previewed at the event by Kansas State University (KSU) Extension Specialist Joel DeRouchey. The 37-page document provides a checklist of considerations for selecting the best age, gender and breed of pig for a junior member, as well as key physical and structural traits to look for when selecting a barrow or gilt. The guide lists additional educational materials, junior swine organizations, shows and events, common swine terminology, an explanation of purebred and crossbred genetics, plus a display of the universal ear notching system for swine.
Equal attention is given to the care and management of a junior pig project, proper nutrition, tips on grooming and preparation before and during the junior show. The guide concludes with swine showmanship tips, including common questions judges pose to young swine exhibitors.
The Show Pig Guide can be downloaded from: www.YouthLivestock.KSU.edu.