By Andi Anderson
Southern Illinois University will host the D5 and Invitational Livestock and Horticulture Career Development Events for school students in April, 2026.
These in‑person contests are designed to strengthen agricultural knowledge, decision‑making, and practical skills through hands‑on learning experiences.
The Livestock Judging event will be conducted at the SIU University Farms. Students will check in during the morning, followed by the official start of the contest.
Multiple judging classes will be included, covering breeding and market animals such as swine, cattle, goats, and sheep. A special focus will also be placed on keep and cull classes to improve real‑world evaluation skills.
Students will complete nine total classes, and the order of classes will be shared on the contest day.
The Horticulture Career Development Event will take place at the SIU Agriculture Building. This contest will include a written exam, plant identification, judging classes, and practical components.
Students will complete activities related to floral design and landscape tools, helping them understand both academic and technical aspects of horticulture.
All students must complete online registration before arriving on campus to ensure accurate participation records. Scantron sheets will be used for scoring, and students must correctly enter their chapter ID and team number.
Teams will be categorized as varsity, junior varsity, or practice. Teachers will also submit team verification forms for accuracy.
Parking and transportation directions will be clearly provided for both events, with free parking available.
Shuttle services will assist participants when needed. Students are encouraged to dress for outdoor weather conditions and wear comfortable, closed‑toe footwear.
Participants should bring their own writing utensils, and clipboards are recommended. Proper conduct is expected during the contests, including maintaining silence during judging. By registering, students agree to photography use for educational and promotional purposes.
These events provide meaningful opportunities for students to apply classroom learning, gain confidence, and explore future agricultural careers in a supportive academic environment.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Illinois, Livestock