OTISVILLE, NY — Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Orange County hosted the annual Orange County 4-H Calf and Livestock Sale on May 9 at the Education Center & 4-H Park. The event offered dairy and livestock farmers an opportunity to connect and bid on high-quality consignments through a live auction.

Over the course of the evening, auction-goers were able to participate in live and silent auctions. Silent-auction items were donated, and the live auctions included calves, livestock, flowers and other items.

The sale also saw the return of the chicken BBQ fundraiser. The proceeds of the chicken BBQ went to the Orange County 4-H Dairy Program to help fund trips, programming and future events. 

The total sales for the evening totaled around $30,000.

“This year’s 4-H Calf and Livestock Sale was truly historic—not just in numbers, but in the energy and dedication behind it,” said Zoe Nafis, CCE Orange livestock/4-H livestock, equine and dairy program manager. “Our youth stepped up in a big way, taking ownership of marketing the sale, reaching out to buyers, and promoting the event across the community. Their hard work paid off in record-breaking participation and support.” The enthusiasm, she said, reflected renewed strength and momentum in Orange County’s dairy and livestock industry.”

The Orange County 4-H Program offers a wide range of experiences, including educational contests, workshops and seminars, project meetings, trips, and hands-on work with local farmers and project animals. Members also develop leadership skills, participate in community service, and gain many other enriching experiences. This sale is made possible through the support of parents, volunteers, agricultural businesses, and community partners. 

Sponsors included Hosking Sales, Hoeffner Farms, Stap Dairy, Valley Brook Veterinary, Narrowsburg Feed, Cochecton Mills, Washington Heights Fire Co., Scott Andersen Diesel Repair, Tractor Supply, Prestige Towing and Recovery, Circleville Fire Co., Krisco Farms, Environmental Forest Products, Walden Savings Bank, Jeff Bank, American Legion Auxiliary, M&H Tractor and Aden Brook.

This auction would not have been possible without the support of Hoskings Sales and those who donated auction items, CCE Orange said.

For more information, contact Jill Van Aken at jd863@cornell.edu or call 845/344-1234 ext. 261.