From learning about production and understanding management to learning to evaluate dairy cattle and goats, 4-H'ers with dairy projects have access to a wide range of learning activities which gives them a broad view of the industry and its contributions.

Where the cream rises to the top.

Kids in 4-H who work with animals understand them so much better when they learn about what to feed them, how to safely train them and how to enhance the animal’s environment. That's why it's called animal science! The 4-H Animal Science program focus is providing the best education to our members on raising, managing, marketing dairy products, and directly selling their livestock as a food source. Caring for an animal is a big deal, members participating in a dairy 4-H animal science project will learn to be responsible and keep good records. Practicing best management while raising an animal gives members the opportunity to engage in science-based, hands-on education. There's nothing like working with a dairy animal to help young people feel connected and boost confidence.

Learn about:

  • Animal Care and Ownership
  • Honesty and Sportsmanship
  • Animal Health and Biosecurity
  • Quality Assurance and Food Safety
  • Animal Housing and Facilities
  • Animal and Environment Relationships
  • Human Health
  • Ethics and Conduct
  • Career Exploration

Learn about:

  • Entrepreneurship
  • Leadership
  • Communication
  • Problem solving and critical thinking
  • Sportsmanship

Youth interested in the dairy industry can explore careers like:

  • Cattle/Goat Herdsman
  • Animal Nutritionist
  • Livestock Buyer
  • Grazing Specialist
  • Artificial Insemination Technician
  • Milk Inspector
  • Dairy Processor- Cheese, Yogurt, Ice Cream, Beauty Products, etc.
  • Dairy Product Development/Research
  • Product Lab Technician
  • Dairy Equipment Sales
  • Quality Assurance Manager
  • Extension Educator
  • Veterinary Science

Projects:

  • Dairy Cow
  • Dairy Goat
  • Dairy Heifer 

  • Dairy Project Record Book (Junior and Senior levels):  Youth select and care for a dairy animal (cattle/goat) and keep a record of all activities with their animal. 

  • 4-H Dairy and Livestock Breeding Animal Leasing Program

* Not all projects may be offered in every county, contact your County Educator for more information.

Cloverbud Animal Science Opportunities:

Youth between 5 and 7 can participate in our 4-H Cloverbud program! This non-competitive program introduces young children to the world of animal science while focusing on safety.

Explore more programs and events