In support of the aforementioned efforts to increase beef show numbers in the county a showmanship clinic was held in conjunction with  the KDA large animal tag in at the Laurel county site. 21 show steers and market heifers were tagged in at the WTA Market alliance facility. While 4-H and FFA members had animals at the facility the opportunity was used for a hands on showmanship clinic. Most of the Laurel County participants are novice showmen. One local 4-H member has shown on a national level and she assisted in teaching the clinic,. 4-Hers were shown the basics of showmanship. how to hold the halter properly. How to hold the show stick. How to set feet. the basics of showmanship. The 4-Hers will now go home and practice the basics. At the next opportunity showmanship skills will be further  developed and more advanced points will be covered.

The average age of farmers in Laurel County is getting older. Fewer new, young farmers are entering the profession. Livestock showing for 4-H an FFA members is an excellent way for youth to explore the agriculture industry and hopefully continue the farming tradition. This joint effort between the extension agents, FFA advisors and local feed companies is an effort to reach young farmers and to encourage them to continue farming.