Lexi Simmons, president of the Dolores Middle School FFA chapter, recently placed first in the junior division of the AgVocate Contest for sheep during the National Western Stock Show in Denver on Jan. 15.
The AgVocate Contest challenges students to develop projects and educate their communities about their interests in agriculture and how it affects their daily life, according to Alison Brown, Dolores FFA adviser and agricultural teacher.
Simmons’ presentation covered sheep handling and husbandry. She began by defining the terms and explaining rumen health, bedding and environment, vaccinations and general care, including shearing, hoof trimming and wool care.
Simmons has participated in 4‑H for most of her life. At the 2025 Montezuma County Fair, she was named grand champion in the intermediate division for sheep and overall grand champion.
She explained that raising sheep involves more than feeding and showing animals and requires full responsibility to keep them healthy. She also discussed using calm handling techniques to minimize stress and ensure the sheep’s safety, as well as the importance of rumen health and proper hydration.
Simmons said rumen health is essential for digesting grain, hay and grass, and that water temperature plays a major role in keeping the rumen functioning properly because extreme temperatures can cause sheep to drink less and disrupt digestion. “Without good digestion, sheep cannot get the nutrients they need, which can lead to weak or sick lambs,” she said.
She also highlighted the need for clean bedding and proper shelter to prevent disease and protect sheep from extreme weather and predators, along with the importance of vaccination.
She noted that sheep must be sheared at least once a year to maintain their health.
As president of the Dolores Middle School FFA chapter, Simmons runs chapter meetings, promotes member participation and helps organize leadership development and community service initiatives throughout the school year, Brown said.
