Contributed article
SAFFORD — Every year, Graham County residents flock to the Fairgrounds for the annual county fair. One of the highlights is coming to see the livestock exhibits, from the fancy chickens with their comical head crests to the adorable lop-eared bunnies. For years, youths have participated in showmanship of lambs, hogs and steers culminating in a livestock auction that is supported by local businesses and the community.
A new opportunity is available this year. The Graham County Junior Small Stock Association is pleased to host a livestock auction at the Graham County Fair for small stock. The goal of Graham County Junior Small Stock Association is to diversify opportunities for youths raising poultry and rabbits in Graham County by supporting and educating those in 4-H, FFA and Open Division. Not every exhibitor is going to feel ready to raise and show a steer or even a lamb. Some exhibitors may not have access to the right facilities to raise larger livestock. Local youths have been able to show their small stock for decades but have not been able to participate in a livestock auction.
A lot of time, energy and money go into raising an animal for the fair. Graham County Junior Small Stock Association is dedicated to helping youth learn responsibility and gain knowledge as they raise their projects. Youth will learn to gain confidence and life skills as they work hard taking the necessary steps to prepare their animals for the fair. This opportunity is available to anyone who falls within the age range of 5-19 by Jan. 1, 2023.
For those interested, it is not too late. To help youths prepare, Graham County Junior Small Stock Association will be hosting clinics at the Safford Agriculture Center at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 27; Thursday, Aug. 10; and Friday, Sept. 29.
For more information, or help selecting an animal, visit Graham County Junior Small Stock Association on Facebook.
Editor’s note: This story was updated at 10:44 a.m. Wednesday, July 19, 2023, to correct the date for age qualification.
