How are you involved in agriculture?
“I show Maine-Anjou, Hereford, Chianina and commercial cattle. I’ve been showing cattle for three years. Before I showed calves I showed sheep for three years. My great-grandma Walker raised some of the sheep we showed.”
What show awards have you earned?
“I won rookie of the year in AJCA, high point Maine Anjou for two years and high point commercial heifer. I also won show heifer of the year with the Maine Anjou Association. I’ve had all-Americans three years in a row. At Missouri State Fair, I’ve won grand champion in the open Maine Anjou show two years in a row, and at the Iowa State Fair I’ve had reserve champion for two years.”
What are your responsibilities on the farm?
“I have to take care of my cattle. I have to practice with my calves. I also wash them and clip them to get them ready for the shows. I also work for my grandpa. I help him work cows. In the summer I cut, rake and fluff hay and get it ready to bale.”
Mason also has to study hard, because his parents require him to make all A’s in school to be able to show.
What do you see as your future in agriculture?
“I’m hoping to take ag classes. I want to get into ag engineering or ag mechanics. I also want to take an oceanography class in college.”
By Sarah Hale
