The sense of pride felt by hunters as they harvest fresh venison to feed their families is truly unique. Like our ancestors centuries before, West Virginians are making the most of this wild and wonderful state and its wildlife. 66,374 West Virginia bucks were harvested during the short, two week firearm season alone this past year. Thousands of deer harvested translates to hundreds of thousands of pounds of venison entering homes around the state. Venison finds its way into slow cookers and roasters throughout the winter months, and gets thrown on the grill in the summer. Some meat is even further preserved by canning to enjoy further down the road.
It’s no surprise that venison proves to be a favorite among the red meats consumed in the mountain state. Greenbrier County 4-H even hosts a contest to highlight the importance of venison in the Greenbrier community. The annual Venison Cook-off is open to youth and adults from 9 years of age and up! Participants bring in their best venison dish to be tasted and evaluated by the judges. There is always a nice turnout to compete for cash prizes and bragging rights for the best venison in Greenbrier County.
Greenbrier County 4-H Leader’s Association’s 12th annual Venison Cook-Off, Bingo, and Auction is set for Feb. 6 in the Cecil Underwood Building of the WV Fairgrounds in Fairlea. Venison cook-off entries are to be submitted between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m., with judging starting at 4 p.m. Test your luck with our 3rd annual bingo event showcasing local home demonstrators or take part in our new Venison 101 class to learn some tips to take your venison from field to table, both starting promptly at 4 p.m. Winners will be announced before the live auction at 6 p.m.
For more information on how to enter the contest, or to register for Venison 101, call the WVU Extension Office at 304-647-7408.