CSU Makes It Official: Reitzenstein Named New Livestock Judging Coach and Coordinator…

The Colorado State University Department of Animal Sciences welcomes Kyndal Reitzenstein as the new Livestock Judging Coach and Coordinator.

Reitzenstein, a Colorado native, cherishes her childhood on the family farm in Kersey.

“My family has around 250 head of Angus cattle where we strive to meet the needs of seedstock and commercial cattle customers. My brother and I grew up showing cattle and pigs at the county, state and national level as well.” Reitzenstein said.

Reitzenstein’s passion for livestock began at age 8, and has only grown since. “My parents got me involved in the Weld County judging program and I will forever be thankful for the opportunities it has offered me and the people I have met along the way.” Said Reitzenstein.

For those who are unfamiliar with Livestock Judging as a sport, Reitzenstein discusses the basics:

“Livestock judging gives students an opportunity to evaluate livestock for either their market or breeding qualities. Animals are placed on their ability to combine muscle, structural correctness, rib/body, and balance. The teaching of livestock judging provides education for students that can be applied to their future careers or within their own livestock operations. In most livestock judging contests, there are 12 classes and 8 sets of oral ‘reasons’. The ‘reasons’ section helps students describe their opinion in why they placed a class the way they did. This helps enhance speaking skills and also confidence in standing behind a decision.”

The Department of Animal Sciences and The College of Agricultural Sciences are thrilled to welcome Kyndal Reitzenstein to the table, and the students are excited to get to work.

Submitted to The BARN by:

Monica Thrasher

Assistant to Department Head | Grad Coordinator

Colorado State University | Department of Animal Sciences