Auburn University Revitalizes Livestock Judging Program

Auburn, Ala.- It has been over 25 years since Auburn University’s College of Agriculture has offered a Livestock Judging Program. However, Auburn University hired Texas Tech graduate Jonah Biensch over the summer to coach the inaugural team after his success at Texas Tech University. This program will allow more student involvement directly into the agriculture and animal sciences industry and successful university representation throughout the country.

A Collegiate Livestock Judging Team is a team of five members representing a college who carefully analyze different livestock species, including beef cattle, swine, sheep, and goats. They measure the stock against a standard that is ideal in terms of form and function and give a set of oral reasons to justify their placings of each class. Typical livestock judging contests will include 12 different livestock evaluation classes, and oral reasons will be given on eight of those classes.

There are countless benefits to being on a Collegiate Livestock Judging Team. These benefits include getting the opportunity to interact with current and future leaders of the livestock industry, developing a sharp eye and keen judgment on livestock trends, and improving oral communication skills. The members will also get the opportunity to see various parts of the country and how producers’ management practices may vary depending on the environment and type of livestock operation.

Having a livestock judging program at Auburn again will help to expand Auburn College of Agriculture’s presence across the nation and provide students with a fun way to learn more about the livestock industry.