Over 25 years ago, a couple gentlemen saw the need to assist youth with an interest in the beef industry. With the help of a handful of donors, Bill Pelton assisted in organizing the early beginnings of the NILE Merit Heifer Program. Youth were encouraged to apply and if awarded a heifer based on “merit”, they would co-own a donated heifer calf with the NILE, all while completing tasks each month leading up to the end point, a heifer show based on the phenotype of the heifer. If the youth completed the program successfully, the heifer was fully transferred to the youth’s name to calve and add to their productive herd.

Since inception, nearly 500 heifers have been awarded to youth across the country. The program has spurred many similar programs, but none have created the legacy that the NILE Merit Heifer Program has in it’s 25 years.

A few years back, Bill mentioned that he would like to see the program have a “get together”. He was mainly interested in where the past recipients were today and their profession. Unfortunately, Bill passed away on July 10th, 2024. While we miss him dearly, we know that Bill would want the reunion to carry on …. and that is what we plan to do!

Help us celebrate 25 years of the NILE Merit Heifer Program, as well as a “tip of the hat” to Bill Pelton on Friday, October 18 at the conclusion of the 2024 NILE Merit Heifer Show. The event will take place in the Expo Center Show Ring. Enjoy some appetizers and drinks while we share some program history and fun stories of Bill.

Please invite any past NILE Merit Heifer Recipient, donor and supporter! Our goal is to see a representative from each of the 25 classes from the Class of 2000 through to the newly selected Class of 2025!

An event has been created on Facebook through the NILE Merit Heifer Facebook page.

Link to the event: https://www.facebook.com/share/pXKNS36Y5xqbsdBC/

Memorial tributes may be made in the form of charitable donations to :

NILE Merit Heifer Program
NILE Foundation
P.O. Box 1981
Billings, Montana 59103