LANGLEY — There may be a downturn in the economy, but you wouldn’t know it from Christina Urtason, head of the newly-formed Whidbey Island Meat Goat 4-H club.
“We were very successful for our first year at the fair,” she said. “Seven of our nine goats made weight — to qualify they must be at least 65 pounds — and they all sold.”
Not just sold, but sold at prices ranging from $2.35 per pound to $3.20.
“I told the kids that something in the low $2.20 a pound would be a good start,” Urtasun said.
“The activity was higher than we expected. Some told us they’d never thought of eating goat meat but were willing to give it a try.”
Later, the last two goats were sold out of the barn.
The average prices for livestock were $2.04 per pound for beef, $3.94 for sheep, $2.72 for pigs and $3.05 for goats.
The total amount for the entire sale was $37,891, minus price supports.
“Sometimes people add an extra amount beyond the per-pound price,” 4-H organizer Jay Kidder said. “Skagit Farmers Supply, for example, gave everyone a $20 bill. If you add price support, the total would have exceeded $40,000.”
4-H program coordinator Judy Feldman said this year’s exhibits and the auction were more comfortable and relaxed.
“Even compared to previous years, folks generally cooperated with each other to make the experience a positive one for the youngsters,” she said. “Considering the tough economy, they did exceptionally well.”
Some families had to sacrifice.
“Over half our 4-H people come from the North End and had to drive down several times for set-up or to bring forgotten items,” Feldman said.
“It takes a financial toll. Even with shared dinners and potlucks among the campers, it’s hard to feed a family of four and the vendors understandably don’t offer discounts.”
But the enduring value to the community of the 4-H program shouldn’t be forgotten, she added.
“The strength of 4-H is that these are family units working together toward a shared goal, whatever that may be to each member,” Feldman said.
Urtasun said she expects her club to enter 10 to 12 meat goats next year.
“It’s the coming thing and we’re glad to be part of it,” she said.
