How to Start a 4-H Livestock Program

For many years, students have been involved in 4-H programs around the country. 4-H allows students to learn about agriculture through leaders and their own community. Livestock programs allow students to care for, exhibit and sell their own animals. Learn how to start a 4-H livestock program by following these steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Contact your local 4-H extension office to see where to begin looking for an animal. Extensions agents can help you locate quality animals with which to start your project.

2. Decide what species of animal you would like to use for your livestock project. Options range from cows and goats to pigs and sheep. There are a number of different animal species from which to choose. Factor in the cost and the space that you have available to work with the animal.

3. Purchase an animal that is from quality stock. In a 4-H livestock program, selling the animal at the end of the season is the goal. Starting with a quality animal can bring better prices and a better return to you at the sale.

4. Have a space available to house the animal. Adequate shelter and protection is needed for the animal's safety and to protect your investment. Rule books containing this information for each animal is available from your 4-H extension agent.

5. Feed the animal the proper diet, which can be found in 4-H rulebooks. Following feeding guidelines for each species of animal is necessary to help the animal achieve it's full potential. These animals are sold according to weight and market value, but obese animals are not chosen ahead of healthy weight animals.

6. Work with your animal to get it accustomed to being handled. There are many different shows and exhibitions for you to take your animal to. Handling is an area that is judged along with cleanliness and health.

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