Livestock Judging Manual Table of Contents
Introduction 2
Objectives
3
Scoring System
4
Effective Note Taking
6
Oral Reasons
9
Transitional Phrases
12
Reasons Format
13
General Carcass Parameters
17
Performance Data and Expected Progeny Differences
18
Sample Scenarios
20
Judging Cattle
23
Judging Swine
42
Judging Sheep
54
Introduction
Evaluation of livestock is an exciting and thought provoking experience. The ultimate goal of livestock judging is to compare your perception of an animal against the IDEAL and then to contrast your opinion with that of another individual or group of individuals. The idea of the perfect animal is constantly changing. The direction of animal agriculture is driven by a variety of factors. As such, this manual is not meant to cover all possible industry changes, but more importantly is designed to help you gain the knowledge and confidence to recognize and adapt to those changes. At its basic level livestock judging consists of two primary components: 1) placing a group of animals and 2) orally justifying your decision (reasons). Within each of these areas there are many actions and processes that must happen for an individual to formulate their ideas. This manual is designed to address those steps and processes. The placing of a class, or comparing the individuals within a class to the ideal, allows an evaluator to make decisions drawing upon their experiences. This portion of livestock judging is often seen as an enjoyable "matching of wits". It allows a participant to establish priorities and to strategize as to the final placing. The second portion, oral reasons, often conjures up more anxiety. However, for those who are prepared, reasons present an exciting chance to share their thoughts and priorities with an expert, ultimately allowing the expert to evaluate the decision making process. Beyond the act of competitive livestock judging, your involvement will provide additional benefits. It exposes you to team work, effective communication skills, analytical thinking and aides you in gaining the confidence to defend your decisions. Developing these skills will benefit you in almost every other area of your life, both now and in the future. In addition, you will have the opportunity to meet and interact with the industry leaders of today and those preparing for tomorrow. It is important to note that the information in this manual is included to assist young livestock evaluators with learning the basics. However, your coach or advisor may prefer that you not utilize some portions of this manual or certain terminology. Livestock judging is driven by opinions and as a result some disagreement is inevitable. In such circumstances you should defer to your coach's opinions to ensure team consistency and success.

下一页