Junior Herd Builder

The Junior Herd Builder Program is open to FFA or 4-H members currently enrolled in 8^th-12^th grade.

Participants will develop a pen of heifers for the purpose of future production or sale. Participants will be responsible for securing three (3) heifers of similar age and genetics to develop through the beef production cycle utilizing the UGA Extension Beef Management Calendar as a guide.

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Objectives

• Expose youth to the beef industry of Georgia
• Educate and serve the beef industry of Georgia
• Enhance leadership, decision-making and management skills of youth participants
• Promote animal and environmental stewardship

Rules

1. Participants must be a member of GJCA or GCA.
2. Participants must provide primary daily and managerial care to the pen of heifers.
3. Participants must become BQA Certified and abide by its practices.
4. BQA certification can be obtained in Module 1 of the online learning section. Additional module
   topics include: herd health, reproduction, nutrition, selection, fencing and facilities, economics,
   forages, and parasite control.
5. Participants are encouraged to work with their local Extension Agent and/or Agricultural Educator
   for assistance and guidance throughout the program.
6. Registered or commercial females are accepted.
   a. Registered females must have copy of registration papers (original is not required)
   b. Commercial females should know the breed type
   c. Registered and commercial female pens will be evaluated in the same division.
7. Birthdates should be known when submitted. Heifers older than three years by the conclusion of
   the contest will be disqualified.
   a. Program management reserves the right to disqualify any heifer with three-year-old teeth
   regardless of registration papers.
8. Heifers must have a valid and current health certificate along with vaccination records

Program Contact: