WESTSIDE — As more residents merge into the rural areas of Benton County, backyard poultry flocks have become a common interest. Country-fresh eggs are a popular item but one problem is to locate poultry of the right breed, age and health status to achieve successful egg production. In that regard, the timing couldn’t be better, said Robert L. Seay, county extension agent - staff chair.
The 4-H Pullet Project, which began in April with day-old chicks, is conducted each year under the auspices of the Benton County 4-H Foundation. The project provides a safe, educational method of introducing youth to the science of animal management, nutrition and recommended production practices on a small scale.
This year’s 4-H pullets are Cinnamon Queen, also referred to as Golden Comets, and are red and buff feathered, calm, easy to handle and produce brown-shell eggs, a customer favorite. Raised under U of A poultry management guidelines, these pullets are already laying. Under good management, they will provide long-term egg production for any poultry enthusiast.
The project culminates with an annual 4-H Pullet Show and Sale, which will be held on Saturday, Aug. 27, at the Benton County Fairgrounds. The show willbegin at 8:30 a.m. as U of A poultry specialist Susan Watkins selects and ranks the 40 pen-of-three entries.
At 9 a.m. the auction will be conducted by Jim Rieff of Rogers, a longtime Friend of 4-H. All pullet exhibits will first be sold forpremium and then resold to individuals who want them for home egg production.
The support of premium sponsors serves to provide funds, which are awarded to participating 4-H members. Businesses or individuals interested in supporting the2011 premium auction at any level may contact Benton County extension agent Robert Seay at 271-1060 or at [email protected]. The Benton County 4-H Foundation is a 501-c3 organization and all contributions are tax exempt.
News, Pages 8 on 08/24/2011