CLAY COUNTY — Raising the perfect swine and steer is the ultimate endgame for students preparing for this year’s Clay County Agricultural Fair.

During the fair’s annual livestock showing, 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) youth from all over the county compete to auction off their animal projects to potential buyers. In an experience of lessons showcasing business and the pork and beef markets, the students tested their leadership and responsibility skills. 

Leading up to auction day in April, Clay Today will highlight some of these young farmers and their project journeys. 

This week, we follow Ansley and Anson Bivins and their pigs, Butterball and Trixie. 

The two siblings have been raising the pigs since November.

This is their second year participating in the program, earning awards in last year’s event, including the Silver Clover and 4-H Blue Awards.

The two said they had gained much knowledge in caring for their livestock this go-around.

“I get to learn a lot of new, great things that I haven’t experienced in the past,” Anson said. “I feel like it could help me do better in life.” 

They venture out to the pens daily to feed, clean, weigh and bond with their swine. During the cold winter season, they also said they make sure to line each of their pens with wood shavings to keep them warm. 

Ansley said that being with her so often, she has learned some new facts about Butterball already, including a tell-tale sign to know she’s excited.

"You see her shaking her tail, that means [she's] very excited," she said. 

In addition to documenting their progress, students in the program are also tasked with getting involved with community activities, volunteer work and writing letters to some potential buyers.

Another plus for them– using their earnings towards college savings – where they both said they plan to head.

The auction will be held in April at the J.P. Hall Livestock Arena. All buyers can bid as low as $1 a pound for swine. 

If you want to purchase Trixie or Butterball at this year's sale, email kellyhampshire_3@yahoo.com.