BILLINGS, MONT. - The Northern International Livestock Exposition (NILE) is once again taking applications for participants in the 2013-14 NILE Merit Heifer Program.  The Merit Heifer program is a "live animal" scholarship that strives to help youth get a start in the beef cattle business by awarding heifer calves to participants chosen based on merit, future goals, and ability to care for the animal. Any youth ages 12-16, who is a 4-H or FFA member, may apply.

Applications must be postmarked no later than September 16.  An application is available online at www.thenile.org or by calling the NILE office.

During the program duration, participants are responsible for raising the heifer, arranging for her to be bred, completing the record keeping procedure and bringing the animal back one year later as a bred replacement heifer for exhibit at the NILE Stock Show.

Bill Pelton, Merit Heifer Chairman, says, "This program would not be possible without the generous support of our donor ranchers and we are very grateful to them."  This year the NILE will select twenty-five recipients and match them up with donors from across the region.  In addition to application from eligible recipients, the NILE is also taking applications from ranches wishing to participate through the donation of a heifer calf.

All application must be postmarked by September 16, 2013.  For more information and applications regarding the Merit Heifer Program, please go to:  www.meritheifer.com or call the NILE office at 406.256.2495.