08/19/2026
The MS Hair Sheep Breeders Association (MHSBA) is excited to announce the Ewe Development Contest, designed to encourage Mississippi 4-H and FFA youth to develop practical sheep management skills and gain hands-on experience raising hair sheep.
The contest will run from September 1 through early November 2026 and will have two divisions: Juniors (ages 8–13) and Seniors (ages 14–18).
Participants may enter either one ewe lamb or a pen of three ewe lambs. Ewes must be fall-born in 2025 or spring-born in 2026, produced in Mississippi, and have a Mississippi Scrapie tag. Contestants are responsible for the daily care and management of their sheep throughout the project.
Entries must be submitted to the MHSBA President by September 1, 2026. Contestants will be evaluated in three areas:
Visual Evaluation – 20%: Weight, growth, body condition, health, soundness, pregnancy status, and knowledge of the sheep.
Records – 50%: Goals, feeding, health care, expenses, breeding decisions, pasture management, and other project activities.
Interview – 30%: Project presentation and questions about management practices.
A record book must be completed and postmarked by November 1, 2026. Final judging will take place at a location announced later.
Awards will be presented at the MHSBA Fall Field Day. Contestants may also have the opportunity to market their entries through an MHSBA-sponsored production sale.
This contest is designed to reward good management, responsibility, and dedication while helping develop the next generation of Mississippi sheep producers.
For rules and entry form, please contact the Simpson County Extension Office.
