Animal Science Activities

Join Us!Participating in the many activities sponsored by the Department of Animal Science is a great way to make friendships and develop communication and problem-solving skills. Faculty and staff within the Department are very supportive and encourage students to become involved in judging teams and other activities to gain real-world experience.

LITTLE INTERNATIONALLittle “I” is the largest student-run livestock exposition in the United States. Since its inception in 1922, Little “I” has become the premier event for the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences. Each year, more than 175 student staff members put on the two-day event which features contests with University livestock. Students bring over 1,000 youths to campus by planning and running events for 4-H and FFA members.

BLOCK AND BRIDLEB&B is a national student organization that promotes animal agriculture. Students participate in monthly meetings, listen to industry speakers and participate in activities such as the Jackrabbit Memorial cattle show.

ACADEMIC QUADRATHLONTeams of students compete in this four-part contest consisting of a quiz bowl, oral presentation, lab practical and written exam. Winners of the local contest travel to Des Moines, IA to compete in a regional event and participate in the American Society of Animal Science Midwest meetings.

SWINE CLUBThe Swine Club is dedicated to generating interest, building understanding and providing opportunities for growth in the swine industry. Club activities include service to the SD Pork Producers Association and participation in field trips to area swine producers and the allied industry.

HORSE CLUBThe Horse Club is dedicated to the promotion of the horse industry and horse-related events. It includes more than 30 members who are active in sponsoring, implementing, and assisting with activities such as horse judging contests, trail rides and the SD Horse Fair.

JUDGING TEAMSJudging team members receive training in decision-making and communications while traveling to various parts of the country. This makes judging team participation a highly valued experience by employers and the industry.

LIVESTOCKThe Livestock Judging Team is mainly composed of upperclassmen interested in learning more about livestock selection. Students travel to a variety of farms and ranches and compete in contests throughout the year, including the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY.

The Meats Judging Team receives instruction on the grading and selection of meat cuts and carcasses of beef, pork and lamb. Many students obtain jobs in the meat industry as graders, supervisors and sales personnel. The meats team travels to contests across the Midwest.

MEATS

WOOLThe Wool Judging Team begins preparing for competition in the fall semester before traveling to the National Western Stock Show in Denver. Selection and grading of wool are emphasized, along with oral reasons.

250 COPIES, $0.92 EACH, ANIMAL SCIENCE, ASXXX, 10/16