Calling all youth exhibitors! Halter up Bessie and get ready to show Wisconsin your “herd” work. The themes for the 2004 Wisconsin State Fair junior dairy show have been selected. Ted Halbach, University of Wisconsin-Madison extension dairy youth specialist, has announced the themes: “Welcome to Our County – Rich in Agriculture” and “Wisconsin Dairy – The ”Real Seal” for a Real Meal!” Halbach said the two themes were selected from among nearly 50 submitted by individuals and 4-H clubs.

Exhibitors ages 12 to 19 will use these themes as the focus of programs that will promote our state”s agriculture and dairy products, county 4-H chapters, and quality livestock.

“Healthy competition at the state and national level always fuels the youth to do their best work, as well as instilling lifelong lessons of responsibility, animal care, husbandry, teamwork, and in public communication,” said Halbach. The youth also compete in showmanship, production awards, herdsmanship, and educational displays.

Last year more than 685 young people from 46 counties exhibited 984 head of dairy cattle. Families, exhibitors, and community members are invited to see the work of our state”s dairy youth Aug. 5 through Aug. 8 at West Allis.