LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Lake County Chapter of California Women for Agriculture was the inaugural sponsor for a new competition at the Lake County Fair called “Lake County Born” for local youth breeders who breed their own market animals.

“We are proud of our history of support for Lake County youth who aspire to become part of the agricultural economy,” the group said in a written statement. “Along with our commitment to increased agricultural awareness in this community, we want to promote the success of the next generation of farmers and ranchers. This competition for youth breeders who breed their own market animals is an important aspect of an exciting, hands-on educational experience that we hope will inspire these youth to seek careers in agriculture.”

LCCWA sponsored two awards totaling $500. Annie Davis,of Middletown 4H with her boer goats, earned the Grand Champion Award of $300 and Katey Brown of Kelseyville 4H with her market rabbit project, earned the Reserve Champion Award of $200.

Additional exhibitors in this competition were Tanner Hicks, Middletown 4H, swine; Gabriella Soria, Scotts Valley 4H, goats; Bentley Carter, Big Valley 4H, market goat; and Cecilia Knight, Big Valley 4H, rabbit breeding project.

Chapter members Dana DiRicco of Upper Lake and Rebecca Harper, executive director Lake County Farm Bureau, judged the competition.