WEST ALLIS, Wis. — For the young farmers that travel from across Wisconsin, coming to the State Fair is not only about having a good time but also clearing up some misconceptions about the livestock industry.

Lindsay Peters is a member of Juneau County Youth Livestock Association. She groomed Nala to get her ready for the Junior Cattle Show.

Peters said growing up on a dairy farm has made her interested in livestock for as long as she can remember.

“I’m up every morning, at 4:30 in the morning, doing chores, getting them in the cooler and this is like an everyday thing,” she said. “Every day, morning to night, you gotta make sure they are fed. No off days, no sick days but it really pays off in the end.”

Peters explained one of the reasons she has come to the state fair for the last three years, is to clear up misconceptions that some may have about livestock not being taken care of.

“We are using our time to make sure these animals look the best and are treated the best. Heck, I think I take care of these animals more than I take care of myself,” said Peters.

McKenna Slater of Evansville is also getting her cow, Albert, prepared for competition. Slater said she and her colleagues are committed to showing how vital livestock are for the state of Wisconsin.

“A lot of our exhibitors, we don’t even see the midway. We are out in the barns with our animals, making sure they are fit, making sure they are ready for fair, for show day,” Slater said. “We are the animal side of the State Fair.”

While Peters aims to do well in the competition, there is one thing she values more.

“You might not place best in the show or anything, but you can’t replace the memories you have in these aisles, in these barns. The State Fair is a big one because you get to see all of your friends from around the state so it’s really fun her,” said Peters.

With the skills, Peters has honed over the years, she plans to go in to the field of Ag Business when she graduates from college.

That career is in due part to the opportunity that Wisconsin State Fair has given Peters and all the other livestock exhibitors.