Applications open for NILE Merit Heifer program

Four-H and FFA members have the opportunity to be selected to raise a heifer and build their own herd through the Northern International Livestock Exposition (NILE) Merit Heifer program.

Applications are being accepted through June 30 and must be submitted by email.

Youths ages 12 to 16 may apply for the scholarship program, which awards recipients a heifer calf to help them get started in the beef cattle industry. As part of the application, youths must submit a personal essay, three reference letters and a link to a three- to five-minute video uploaded to YouTube, introducing themselves, giving a facility tour, highlighting 4-H or FFA projects they’re involved with, personal goals and objectives for participating in the program. Participants will be selected based on merit, goals and ability to properly care for the animal.

Youths who are selected will be responsible for taking care of the calves, breeding them and maintaining records. The heifers will be co-owned with NILE, until the completion of the program. After one year, participants will showcase their bred heifers at the NILE Stock Show in October to compete for top showman, top heifer and top herdsman honors, to name a few.

To access applications and for more information visit https://thenile.org/events/livestock/nile-merit-heifer-program/ or contact Program Coordinator: Shelby Shaw at shelby@thenile.org or 406-256-2499.