CENTRE– For 11-year-old Porter Snead, 4-H Chick Chain offers lessons in responsibility, poultry care, and approaching the community for support.

The sixth grader at Sand Rock School joined Dr. Landon Marks, Cherokee County Extension Director, on WEIS Radio Wednesday morning, Oct. 14. They visited with Merry Jerry Baker on his morning show to discuss Porter’s experience and the upcoming regional show and auction. You can listen below:

Marks described Porter as one of the program’s rising stars. He credited the young participant with raising more than $600 in sponsorships by visiting businesses and speaking with potential supporters.

Raising Chicks Takes Daily Responsibility

Porter had chickens at home before joining 4-H Chick Chain. However, learning about the project at school encouraged him to research it and become involved.

He said raising chicks from their first day is demanding. The project requires considerable responsibility, but he also finds it rewarding and fun.

For example, Porter explained that his birds need food, water, and regular attention. He uses a movable chicken house for his older birds. In addition, he generally cleans the brooder for his young chicks weekly.

Baker noted that the birds depend on their caretaker, turning their daily care into a practical lesson in responsibility.

Marks said this year’s participants received day-old chicks during the last week of April. They then raised the birds through the summer while preparing for the fall show.

Extension staff also conducted showmanship clinics and home visits. During those visits, agents inspected participants’ facilities, answered questions, and offered suggestions about housing and the birds’ growth.

Although the visits take place during July’s heat, Marks described them as one of his favorite parts of the program.

Learning to Ask for Community Support

Porter said approaching businesses and asking for money can be difficult. However, he has continued making those visits and has sometimes taken a chicken along to introduce his project.

He recalled receiving a Sponsor Seeker award last year, which brought an additional financial reward.

Marks explained that sponsorship money helps fund prizes for the young participants. In addition, sponsors receive recognition at the fair and in the program distributed during the show and auction.

Porter’s efforts have drawn praise beyond the dollars raised. For example, Marks said a business sent a handwritten note commending Porter’s communication, eye contact, and handshake during his sponsorship visit.

Baker discussed the business side of raising chickens, including the initial investment, ongoing work, and financial returns.

Porter said he sells eggs as well as birds. Show awards provide another opportunity to earn money.

Preparing for the Show Ring

Marks explained that participants compete in both showmanship and breed classes. First, showmanship gives them an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and handling of a pullet, or young female chicken. Meanwhile, breed competition compares birds with others of the same breed.

Porter said he placed around fifth in the county last year. He described cleaning his birds and washing their feathers before a show.

This year, Porter has contributed to other participants’ preparation. Marks said the sixth grader helped him teach during a showmanship clinic.

Regional Show and Auction Set for October 24

The 2026 Northeast Alabama 4-H Chick Chain Show & Auction takes place Saturday, Oct. 24, at the VFW Fairgrounds in Fort Payne.

Marks said organizers expect approximately 70 participants from Cherokee, DeKalb, and Etowah counties. He also invited the public to watch the young people show their birds and participate in the auction.

According to the event flyer, the schedule includes:

• Show: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Awards: 2 to 3 p.m.
• Auction: Immediately after the awards, at approximately 3 p.m.

At the auction, buyers can purchase pens of three pullets raised by the participants. In addition, Marks said many of the birds are already laying eggs.

Marks said the event takes place in conjunction with the fair. Porter plans to participate in the show. He also expressed interest in returning to Chick Chain next year and participating in Pig Squeal if things work out.

Exploring More Through 4-H

Porter’s involvement extends beyond poultry. He also participates in a new 4-H shotgun club, where he is learning firearm safety and shooting skills.

During the interview, he said he enjoys learning about poultry science and how to raise birds. Baker discussed how those experiences could lead to future educational opportunities in poultry science.

At the close of the interview, Marks also thanked WEIS for the opportunity to discuss the program. He expressed appreciation for Cherokee County’s support of 4-H.

Dr. Marks Brings Livestock and Youth Education Experience

Marks serves as Cherokee County Extension Director with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Previously, he worked as an animal science and forages agent serving livestock producers in northeast Alabama.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences from Auburn University in 2010. After completing a master’s degree in animal and dairy sciences at Mississippi State University, he returned to Auburn. Later, he earned his doctorate in animal sciences there in 2020.

In addition, the Auburn Alumni Association named Marks to its 20 Under 40 Class of 2025. Alabama Extension’s announcement highlighted his work with 4-H livestock programs, including Chick Chain and Pig Squeal.

More Information

For details about the show and auction, contact one of the following Extension offices:

• Cherokee County Extension Office: 256-927-3250.
• DeKalb County Extension Office: 256-845-8595.
• Etowah County Extension Office: 256-547-7936.

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