Dalton Melton
Age: 15
Parents: Jon and Val Melton
Hometown: Yellville, Ark.
Education: A junior at Yellville-Summit High School in coming school year
Clubs: FFA, FBLA and Marion County Livestock 4-H Club
4-H Leader: Erica Morris
How are you involved in agriculture?
“Being raised on a farm, my parents expect me to play an active role. In the winter, I help feed hay and make sure water is available for the livestock. In the summer, I help with shots and do the fly spraying. I also have two show heifers and a show pig that I am solely responsible for. It is my responsibility to feed and care for them, groom them and train them for showing.”
Have you had success showing your animals?
“Yes. Showing my animals is one of the things I enjoy most about 4-H. I have won Grand Champion, Reserve Champion and a Showmanship Award. It’s a lot of work, but I love it and especially like the people that I meet.”
How long have you been in 4-H and FFA and what offices do you hold?
“I have been in 4-H for five years and now I’m the club photographer. I am the newly elected FFA president and have been in FFA two years. I enjoy both organizations as well as FBLA because they teach us leadership skills, business principles, speaking and a work ethic.”
Who in agriculture has had the most influence on your life?
“Probably my dad and our good friend Johnny Weaver, and especially my 4-H leader Erica Morris. Erica has taught me my show skills, how to groom the animals and will help me with anything anytime I need her.”
What are your plans after high school?
“I always want to live on a farm and hope to have a place of my own while working in the medical field. I’m not sure if I want to be an EMT, doctor or a vet.”
