Payton and Wyatt Luschek attend the Buckeye Young Shepherds Expo

By Austin Bohrer


Premier Showmen 4-H Club

Payton and Wyatt Luschek recently traveled to The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster to attend the Buckeye Young Shepherds Expo, where they participated in a full day of educational and hands-on learning experiences focused on sheep production and care.

While at the expo, they took part in a variety of interactive activities designed to strengthen their understanding of animal science. One of the most notable experiences included dissecting a lamb, which allowed them to gain a better understanding of anatomy and how different systems function. 

They also observed a necropsy, where they learned how professionals determine the cause of an animal’s illness or death, providing valuable insight into herd health management.

Throughout the event, Payton and Wyatt learned about important biosecurity practices and how they play a critical role in preventing the spread of disease among livestock. They also gained knowledge about proper animal welfare and daily care, including the importance of maintaining clean water sources, monitoring animal health, and correctly administering injections.

In addition to these activities, they toured the Small Ruminant Center, where they were introduced to different aspects of sheep production and facility management. They also learned about breed classification and how various breeds differ in traits such as size, wool type, and overall purpose within the industry.

The expo featured several educational sessions covering topics such as roadside safety when transporting livestock, proper handling during travel, and how to ensure animals remain safe and stress-free during transport. Participants also had the opportunity to complete the quality assurance portion of the program, reinforcing best practices in livestock care and responsibility.

Overall, the Buckeye Young Shepherds Expo provided Payton and Wyatt with a valuable and memorable experience. The knowledge and skills they gained will help them become more confident and responsible in caring for their animals, while also preparing them for future opportunities within the agricultural industry.