Two local youth were among 4-Hers from across the state who participated in several animal science knowledge contests May 11 at Penn State’s University Park campus, State College.

4-Hers, Samuel and Levi Lazarus, of North Whitehall, placed 25 and 40, respectively.

They are both members of the Livestock Club.

The primary objective of the Livestock Skill-a-thon contest is to provide an opportunity for youth enrolled in 4-H to demonstrate their knowledge of livestock-related subject matter.

In this skill-a-thon, livestock included beef cattle, swine, sheep and meat goats.

The contest provides an educational experience to develop self-confidence and encourage decision making.

Team members learned animal management techniques, gained industry knowledge and applied that knowledge in a friendly, competitive setting.

Participants worked independently and collaboratively to demonstrate analytical and decision-making skills related to care and management of animals, both big and small.

Additional information about the Lehigh County 4-H program can be found at extension.psu.edu/programs/4-h/counties/lehigh.