Young farmers and ranchers from across the state are gearing up for the 67th Annual State Livestock and Poultry Show hosted by the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center, March 11-13.

They are grooming, weighing, and even breeding their champion animals in preparation for the two-day competition to be held at the Maurice A. Edmond Livestock Show Arena on Highway 61N in Alsen.

The show features animals that have been showcased or have won in parish competitions. During the two-day event, judges will name the state champions in various breeds of beef and dairy cattle, hogs, sheep, lamb, and goats. The all-time favorite mini-farm, featuring a variety of small farm animals, will open Friday, March 12, 9 am. Tour guides will discuss different animals, their food sources, farming and how agriculture affects everyone's lives. The show will also have face painting, food, craft booths, and the Hall of Louisiana Agriculture, until 1 pm Friday for local school groups.

Winners will receive premiums, rosettes, ribbons, and silver platters. An awards presentation for exhibitors of champion market animals in the show will be held Saturday, March 13, at 8 am and will be immediately followed by the Junior Auction Sale at 10:30 am. Prize meats (beef, lamb, pork, and goat) are available for pre-sale now, as well as during the auction.  

Weigh in for animals and contestant check in begin March 11. School groups and families are invited to attend this free event.

To pre-order meat or register a group, visit www.suagcenter.com.