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Want to promote beef consumption and
positive industry perception? The Glenn-Colusa Cattlewomen and
local beef producers do just that by throwing their support
behind Murdock Schools Pioneer Days in May. All fourth grade
students in Willows Unified School District, Willows, CA have a
chance to learn pioneer crafts, study about the areas early
economic development, and practice ranch skills. The beef
industry past, present and future is presented in a positive
light for students, parents and teachers alike.
Students have the opportunity to see
calves roped, doctored and branded. There are hands-on learning
stations where students learn to make rope, rope a steer dummy,
understand the role of birds of prey and their impact on
domestic livestock, identify local plants and animals,
understand the importance of clean water, and participate in
community service projects and arena events such as barrel
racing, barrel rolling, polebending and goat-tying. Yolo Land
and Cattle Company jerky is provided by the Glenn-Colusa
Cattlewomen as a snack for all students and helpers. One student
from each class wins a Western Cowman cap as a prize for their
plant and animal identification skills.
The Willows USD partners with a
diverse group of local agencies, organizations and community
volunteers. Dedicated members of the beef industry from Willows,
Elk Creek, Cottonwood and Gridley help to make the days special.
From the US Forest Service to the local RCD and NRCS offices to
the Elk Creek Buckarettes and Willows FFA Chapter, all come
together to help out with the many learning activities and
presentations. The Mudd Family Ranch is the site for health,
barn building and resource conservation & restoration
presentations on the first day. On the second day, the Landini
Family opens its Divide Ranch for the cattle work demonstration,
learning stations and tri-tip BBQ lunch. For 7 years, Pioneer
Day has been building beef consumers one delicious meal and fun
day at a time. |
