A boy and his steer

Tuesday 18th of June 2013

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A boy and his steer

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Orvis is nine years old and in fourth grade at Ridgway Elementary School. He has been raising Buddy since November and has done an outstanding job. Orvis purchased the steer from the neighboring Weber Ranch. In March, Buddy weighed in at around 650 pounds and has reached a weight of about 1250 pounds. Whatever the young Orvis is doing as far as a feeding regimen seems to be working well.
One Fair contest Orvis will enter Buddy into is Ouray County Bred and Fed. This contest is open to all eligible steers that were born and raised in Ouray County. The Grand Champion for class placing receives $300.00. Any money that Orvis raises by selling Buddy will first go to paying for feed and equipment. The rest will be put away for the purchase of an animal for next year’s endeavors.
When this reporter showed up to interview Orvis and take a few pictures of Buddy, Orvis was working with Duane Beamer, a member of the 2012 Fair Board. Beamer was demonstrating how to show the steer to the judges. Orvis seemed to pick up the technique and etiquette quickly. By the time he shows Buddy at the Fair on Saturday, he’ll have it down pat.
Beamer related that one of the most important things in the 4-H program is the record keeping. Without accurate records a youth would be able to show his animal at the Fair but not be able to sell it.
According to Beamer, the record book teaches the kids the business side and gets them in the habit of good bookkeeping, a requisite of learning basic profit/loss business principles. The goal is to teach these kids something that they will be able to implement for the rest of their lives. Whether or not a youth will choose to raise livestock for a living, these skills will translate well to a profession they do choose. According to Orvis, it’s either astronaut or fireman for him.
When asked what is his favorite part about raising Buddy and being involved in the 4-H program, Orvis replied that it “is getting to spend time with guys like Duane Beamer.”
The wisdom and knowledge imparted by “guys like Duane Beamer” will have a lasting positive effect on all who get a chance to work with them.
Orvis has been immersed in the ranching culture. According to his mother, Cristy Orvis, he has pretty much grown up on a horse. Since the tender age of three he has been competing in Gymkhana, which involves competing in a mix of equestrian events. Orvis has already come away with several prizes.
The Ouray County Fair opens Thursday with the horse show, pie judging contest, open class entries and antique tractor pull. On Friday is judging for poultry, rabbit, goats, swing and bucket calf. Saturday is sheep and beef judging, round robin judging, Parade of Champions and 4-H livestock sale.