HURON, S.D. – There’s nothing quite like watching a youngster bid on an animal for the very first time. Whether the kids are new to the sheep business or want to expand their flock, the South Dakota Sheep Growers Association (SDSGA) offers an opportunity to those ages 10-18.
Lisa Surber, SDSGA Executive Secretary talks about the Ewe Sale Youth Credits that are awarded at the Premium Yearling Ewe Sale.
“The sale started in 2018. That first year, we generated funds to begin the process of awarding youth credits the following year. We give $500 awards. We’ve given 14 of these out in the last four years.”
After completing and submitting a single-page application (form and instructions are on the association’s website), a selection committee makes the final decision. Applications are open to kids from South Dakota and surrounding states. The deadline to apply for Ewe Sale Youth Credits is Friday, June 16.
“We’re proud of this program. It’s largely due to donations through consignors either donating a premium yearling ewe and other individuals who do other forms of contributions. We also have a roll-over auction at the start of the premium sale. Money raised goes to replenishing the fund every year. It encourages youth to get involved in the sheep industry.”
Winners of the youth credits must use the funds at the association’s popular Premium Yearling Ewe Sale, set for July 22, 2023 in Huron, S.D.
“Now, if they don’t get sheep bought that day, we will hold it over for them to use the following year. If not used at that time, the funds stay in the program.” She added, “That hasn’t happened so far. The kids get so jacked up about being able to buy sheep. There’s too much excitement that day not to go home with sheep.”
Sale day also includes a roll-over auction that is the primary fundraiser for the youth credit program, educational presentations by SDSU Extension Sheep Specialists, a free lamb lunch, and the sale, that begins at 2:00p.m. (CT). For more information, go to sdsheepgrowers.org and see on Facebook.
Combining the youth credit awards with the yearling ewe sale is a win-win, said Surber.
“When you’ve got youth in the crowd there, it generates some excitement. What better thing to see than the next generations coming up and still wanting to be involved in the sheep industry. She added, “Just a reminder. The deadline to apply for the youth credit program is Friday, June 16.”
