UMass Amherst.
Massachusetts 4-H Program.
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Beef and Dairy

2008 4-H Dairy Camp Adobe Acrobat Icon

2008 Animal Health Rules for Fairs Adobe Acrobat Icon

2007 Masschusetts 4-H Dairy Show Booklet Adobe Acrobat Icon

BEEF CATTLE PROJECT

The first decision a youth must make is which type of beef cattle project to show. 4-H beef cattle competitions may include purebred beef heifers, market steers, commercial heifer projects and commercial steer projects.

When a youth decides to raise a beef cattle project, he or she takes on the responsibility of caring for, feeding, and training the calf. This project teaches youth the value of hard work and commitment to a project.

The 4-H beef project area offers opportunities for youth to raise beef cattle for show competitions or to build their own herd. Contests focused on judging livestock and general knowledge are also an opportunity for youth to compete at the state and national level.

Beef Jeopardy Game PowerPoint Icon
Game Hints
Livestock Judging Technique Site

RECORDS
Livestock Lease Agreement Word Document New!

Boy with cow
DAIRY CATTLE PROJECT

Owning or leasing a dairy cattle project is a great way to learn more about the dairy industry as well as animal nutrition, health, reproduction, and milk production. The 4-H dairy cattle program offers many opportunities for youth who are interested in this project area. Competitions such as junior dairy cattle shows allow youth to raise a dairy animal and exhibit it at various shows from a local to national level.

Other contests such as dairy quiz bowl and judging are a great way to learn more about dairy cattle and the dairy industry, while having a great time and meeting new friends.

DAIRY JUDGING SITES:
Eastern States Exposition (Contest Rules)
Hoards Dairyman
North American Livestock Exposition (Contest Rules)
Holstein Foundation
Virginia Tech
2004 PDCA Showring Ethics

RECORDS
Livestock Lease Agreement Word Document New!

Questions or further information, please contact:

Carrie Chickering-Sears
Director of Community Education in Animal Agriculture
University of Massachusetts Amherst Veterinary & Animal Science Dept.
111 North Maple Street
Hadley, MA 01035
Phone: 413-549-3257
Via e-mail: ccsears@umext.umass.edu

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