Chapters and clubs from all over the nation come to the NILE to compete in various contests, building on skills that will drive them to success. The NILE welcomes FFA and 4-H members onto the grounds by starting the day with a Pancake Breakfast served by the Billings Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee.

The Livestock Judging Contest is a process of evaluating, selecting, placing, and learning the various livestock species – beef cattle, sheep, goats, and swine. It’s important to learn how to compare the merits of one animal compared to another, and how they relate to the ideal species conformation. Livestock producers, breeders, feeders, buyers, and packers evaluate livestock for their potential as either breeding or market animals. The ability to evaluate animals, and then explain the reasoning for doing so are applicable skills.

The Horse Evaluation came back in 2022 after a 10+ year break. During this contest, FFA and 4-H members will gain new insights into equine science by evaluating and ranking horses based on breed characteristics, conformation and performance. Participants will defend their decisions through oral reasons.

The Sales & Service contest gives students an opportunity to practice selling a product or service. This contest teaches communication skills, persuasive techniques, and negotiation methods. These skills can help with future careers and daily business tasks. The Billings community has always greatly supported this contest by volunteering to be a judge for this contest. Judges role play as customers for the students to sell the designated item of the day. This contest also provides an insight of the opportunities available in the ag sales industry.

Overwhelming exceptional attendance and the notice for “the need” of professionals in our area led the return of the Vet Science and Meat Evaluation Contests! The Vet Science contest is open to FFA and the Meat Evaluation Contest is open to both 4-H & FFA.

Questions?
Program Coordinator: Shelby Shaw
shelby@thenile.org | 406-256-2499