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Thirteen-year-old first Junior Member to join National Bison Association under new programJosiah Higgins, a 13-year-old from Genoa, Colo., became the National Bison Association's first Junior Member when he wrote the NBA a $50 check from his own checking account. He is the son of Larry and Jacki Higgins, who operate Heart Rock Bison. The young Higgins is not letting any grass grow under his feet, as he has already claimed his first membership benefit by entering the NBA's 2009 Gold Trophy Show and Sale market class. He also plans to enter the youth judging contest, as well, although he does not have to be a member to do so. "The Junior Membership is one way the NBA is encouraging young people to get involved in the industry," said NBA President Dave Carter. "It is also a way for NBA to train its future leaders." Bison sales have been brisk with U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics showing growth of 15 percent per year or more over the last several years. The problem for the industry at this point is having enough producers to meet growing consumer demand. The NBA is putting out the welcome mat to new producers, including young people. "I got interested in buffalo when my dad took me to meetings and sales. Then he let me buy a buffalo," Higgins said. "I like going to the meetings and listening to the adults talk, and I like that I can earn some money." Higgins owns 10 beef cows with his older brother and is the sole owner of two buffalo cows. He helps his dad feed the bison, and he assists when the family needs to work or load animals. He says he loves the farm and raising bison and cattle and that he would someday like to be able to take over his folks' operation. Josiah is in seventh grade at Genoa-High Jr. High School. There are 10 students in his class. He plays all sports offered by his school, which includes football, basketball, track and baseball. When he reaches ninth grade, he would like to join the Future Farmers of America. When asked how it feels to learn he is the NBA's first member, Josiah said, "It's cool. I'm not the only kid attending the Rocky Mountain Buffalo Association meetings. I hope more kids join." He says the NBA's July 2008 decision to add a junior membership is a good one, as it "gives kids a forward look at the leaders" in the industry. The Junior Membership is just one of several ways the NBA hopes to attract young people to the industry. In addition to the Junior Membership, which was approved by the NBA Board in September, the National Buffalo Foundation offers $4,000 annually in higher education scholarships to young people studying areas pertaining to the bison industry. The NBA also offers a Student Affiliate Membership for colleges and universities that have buffalo or bison as their school mascot or are otherwise interested in bison. Learn more at www.bisoncentral.com.
Date: 12/19/08 Advertisement
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