by Emma Bloodworth
Due to the epidemic that arose earlier this year, all local county fairs were cancelled which prohibited Ag students from showing and selling their livestock projects. The ag teachers and Spring Valley Ag Boosters quickly found a way to allow students to still gain the opportunity to raise livestock through a cooperative business project titled Meat Market, the name was voted on and chosen by students.
Through the Meat Market, students were given a list of animals in which they could “buy-in” to and learn to raise and care for. The available species included swine, goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, and turkeys. Those who chose to care for a species learned how to care and show their animal properly like they would at a fair. The hard work paid off on the night of Oct. 17 where students will showcased their time and energy and sell their projects to a community member (more information to come in future article).
Ag teacher Eduardo Rubio said that he has seen students step up and out of their comfort zones. “At first, everyone was very shy and standoffish and were very afraid to be hands on with their projects as they had not handled these kinds of animals on a regular basis.”
Rubio goes on to say, “Now, students are so eager to be able to work with their animal and have become true professionals in making sure that the animals are raised humanely, as well as seeing students come together and create new friendships and memories with one another.”
The 14 students who participated in the Meat Market this semester were able to improve their knowledge of livestock and gain real-world business and industry experiences.