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February/March 2004 Issue
Essential education
by Jennifer Shike
The future of the swine industry depends upon its ability to educate youth, and we all need to do better.
I recently participated in a Pork Quality Assurance (PQA) meeting where my eyes were opened further to the opposition facing the showpig industry. I was discouraged by the discussion of a few to eliminate youth market hog shows.
Unfortunately, these skeptics presented many points I could not argue.
They said commercial swine producers are concerned that show practices will damage consumers’ views of pork. They fear show practices will initiate animal welfare concerns. They worry that shows compromise the health of the
These views were supported by packers who are refusing to purchase showpigs due to high residues, high incidences of PSE or poor quality pork, increased downers and dead on arrivals, extra labor and reduced cut value due to hair-removal problems.
One of the speakers said the current show industry focus revolves around money, followed closely by entertainment. Way down the list, he admitted there was some focus on youth education.
Finally, a point I could argue.
I agree that many things in our world are controlled by money – but this is a larger reflection of society, not just the showpig industry. It is naïve to believe the commercial industry is not concerned about money. The swine industry would cease to exist if they did not let money guide their decisions.
But, most youth exhibitors are involved in showing pigs because they enjoy raising and caring for their pigs, meeting new friends at shows, and traveling throughout the country with their family. I would list money as a distant reason why kids show pigs.
Only a small percentage of youth who exhibit pigs will win the big money. Yet, they continue to attend shows because they enjoy themselves. If this is entertainment, it’s one of the best kinds, as it also creates positive learning experiences.
Youth education is why the National Junior Swine Association (NJSA) exists. NJSA shows are organized to promote youth, offering opportunities to develop a variety of skills to prepare them for a successful future and gain knowledge about their project and the swine industry.
The NJSA skillathon, judging, photography and speech contests offer obvious educational development. But the foundation of our events – the gilt show – teaches the most important lessons of all – responsibility, ownership, dedication, stockmanship, communication – the list goes on.
But, if we eliminate the live animal, we lose these teaching opportunities, and we lose the kids involved in the swine industry.
In a survey last year, 78 percent of NJSA members said their favorite event at the National Junior Summer Spectacular was the gilt show or showmanship contest.
Let’s face it. These events involving the live animal are the main reasons why kids attend the NJSS and other shows.
We need shows to bring youth together to educate them about industry issues. If we don’t continue to hold shows, what will ignite the interest in young people to become involved in the swine industry?
I believe shows are an excellent way to present educational concepts in a fun envir-onment that fosters friendship, competition and communication.
It’s simple. Kids love to show pigs. That’s a good thing we need to support – not eliminate.
Instead of giving up, let’s educate youth about issues the industry is concerned about, such as PQA, proper handling methods, genetics and nutrition programs.
Today’s swine exhibitors come from a variety of backgrounds – few grew up on a commercial swine operation. As our “showman” changes, we must change our expectations and educational programs.
In my opinion, many programs are adapting to today’s youth. The Pork Checkoff has developed a new PQA program that helps youth pork producers meet today’s consumer demands for quality and safety. It emphasizes good management practices and encourages youth to review their approach to swine health programs. This new curriculum will make application of these practices easier.
The NJSA is on the right track, too. Members are being educated through the newsletter, “The Pinnacle,” the national youth leadership conference, and numerous shows. Still, it is our goal to do better. We must promote the NJSA to the commercial sector of our industry so they can see the value of youth swine shows and programs.
We all play a role in educating future swine industry leaders. Youth exhibitors, it’s your responsibility to listen to industry concerns and protect the future of shows by raising your livestock the “right” way. Parents, 4-H leaders, show management, packers, extension specialists, FFA advisors, breeders and others involved in the youth swine project need to set the educational curve that will help our industry thrive.
It’s not time to throw in the towel – it’s time to do better.
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