Livestock numbers steady in fair entries

There will be a lot of hooves, paws and bird feet on the Plymouth County Fairgrounds for the 2008 fair which opens Wednesday.

"Our numbers are steady and a couple of areas are up," said Carol Schneider, ISU Extension Education Director and fair board member.

The largest increase is in the poultry division.

According to Schneider there are 299 birds entered in the commercial and exotic poultry show, compared to 226 birds in 2007.

"We're down one exhibitor but up in number of birds," said Schneider. "I think that reflects the workshops we've had."

Market beef numbers are at 110 compared to 91 in 2007, along with breeding heifers with 51 compared to 47 last year. "We're up two exhibitors in the market beef, with 19 more head," Schneider said.

Total numbers in the swine show are down slightly, 289 from 312 in 2007, but only one exhibitor less than 2007.

"That just goes with the industry," Schneider said.

The horse show also saw an increase with 50 entries compared to 40 in 2007. "Those numbers speak of the interest that the horse project leaders and members have," commented Schneider.

Entries in both the cat and pet show are down, but Schneider hopes the open pet show in Sunday will see more interest.

"Overall, we have good numbers. Visitors to the fair will see every species of animal. There will be some of everything. Some county fairs aren't able to say that," Schneider said.

She also noted the 4-H members who exhibit meat animals are trained in food safety quality assurance, as they are helping to contribute to the food chain.

"When you put all the Iowa 4-H'ers together, it's a significant number of pounds" she said of the animals entered and sold.

"Our judges compliment us and our exhibitors and their families on the quality of livestock production they're involved in," Schneider said.