Three Warren County competitors placed in the top 10 in their divisions at the 2018 4-H livestock judging contest.This was an opportunity for contestants to develop and hone their judging skills and explore future career and educational options.Trenton Edwards came in second and Savannah Miller placed eighth in the top 10 for 8-to-10 year old competitors. Trenton Edwards also placed eighth in the top 10 for junior competitors.The University of Missouri Extension 4-H State Livestock Judging Contest was held Sept. 8 and drew 148 competing 4-H members.The 2018 contest included two age divisions, junior for ages 8 – 13 and senior for ages 14 – 18.Youth involved with the livestock judging program develop key life skills to aid in their future career success. Through involvement in a 4-H judging team members must make rapid, logical decisions and defend their decisions via oral reasons.Students improve their ability for critical thinking and accurate communication. In addition, students become organized and self-disciplined, learn to accept criticism, develop self-confidence and become leaders.Alumni from the program have reported success in the livestock judging competition has translated to employment opportunities, internships and scholarships.In 2019 members of the three championship senior teams will advance to national 4-H livestock judging contests held in the fall. The top five senior teams represented the following counties: Mercer County, first, Lawrence County, second, Vernon County, third, Bates County, fourth, and Miller County, fifth.To learn more or to join 4-H visit 4h.missouri.edu.4-H