Working Steers

The 4-H Working Steer Project allows youth the opportunity to train a pair of steers (castrated males) to work together as a team. This project is growing in popularity due to the numerous classes that a youth and their team can participate in. Some of the classes are:

1. Fitting and showmanship
2. Best matched set
3. Working class
4. Pulling class

4-H members are selected with their teams to attend the New England Youth Working Steer Competition at the Eastern States Exposition. This competition brings together the best young teamsters from throughout the New England area. The selection process is based on the performance by the youth and their team at various Massachusetts 4-H Shows.

Working steers bond with their owners. A team works best for the person who trains and understands them. Working steers are truly the result of a 4-Her's time and efforts, not a parent's willingness to do the work or spend top dollar to buy the best animals.

If interested in joining or starting a 4-H Working Steer Club, please contact:

Carrie Chickering-Sears
Phone: 413-549-3257
Via e-mail: ccsears@umext.umass.edu