Sixty high school 4-H’ers from across the state gathered on campus to learn about animal science during animal science roundup held in June. This event was started in 1985 under the direction of Dr. Brad Skarr. The objectives of animal science roundup are to teach modern concepts and technologies in animal agriculture to Iowa 4-H’ers, encourage and recognize achievements in Iowa 4-H livestock projects other than showing and fair activities, and introduce Iowa 4-H youth to career opportunities in animal agriculture.
The event has gone through many changes throughout its tenure but continues to provide hands-on experiential learning to the youth of Iowa. This year was a modified format with youth spending one day in with their respective projects rather than the traditional three-day event. Beef project participants were led by Dr. Brad Skarr and Jordan Harding. Dairy participants worked with Christen Burgett and Dr. Gail Carpenter while dog participants worked with Dr. Cheryl Morris. Dr. Peggy Auwerda lead the horse project and the Meat Science project was led by Dr. Sherry Olsen, Caroline Downey and Jake Manternach and the poultry project was headed up by Jessica Menke. The sheep project was led by Dr. Amy Powell and Mackenzie Cassas while the swine project was led by Dr. Laura Greiner. 4-H members participated in a variety of hands-on experiences and demonstrations from making sausage to judging wool and evaluating beef rations.
