Montana 4-H Project Selection Guide 2022-2023
The Clover is your guide to the hundreds of projects offered through the Montana 4-H program. It is designed to help youth decide which project areas meet their interests and needs. These projects provide opportunities for learning content knowledge, developing competencies and gaining skills. The Clover is your guide to the hundreds of projects offered through the Montana 4-H program. It is designed to help youth decide which project areas meet their interests and needs. These projects provide opportunities for learning content knowledge, developing competencies and gaining skills.
Last Updated: 09/22by Montana 4-H Center
CLOVER
Montana 4-H Project Selection Guide 2022–2023
| Head | Heart | Hands | Health |
Montana youth are thriving in 4-H programs. 4-H offers a powerful connection to the community and the opportunity to gain employable skills that last a lifetime.
Cover photo bottom left by Tom Aldrich; back cover photo upper center by Jane Wolery; all other photos courtesy National 4-H
Dear 4-H Members, Leaders and Parents,
Welcome to the 2022–2023 4-H year! The beginning of a new chapter in our 4-H lives is always an exciting time. We start new projects, participate in new experiences, and make new friends we can welcome to our clubs and project groups. The 4-H program in Montana spans every county and reservation in our state, every community, and nearly every neighborhood. We all work to meet the needs of our local programs, and also have so much in common. As a 4-H family, you are part of a network of more than 3,000 volunteers and 18,000 youth. Our traditions bring us together and our innovations keep us relevant to today’s youth. Let’s celebrate this new 4-H year!
The work of volunteer 4-H leaders is supported by the resource materials in this project guide. With over 200 projects available, nearly any young person can find the topic of interest that sparks self-motivated learning under the guidance of a caring adult mentor.
Project work is the foundation of the 4-H experience. Couple a spark with a welcoming sense of belonging and 4-H members thrive. Combine project work with enrollment in a 4-H club, and young people will learn the many life skills necessary to make a successful transition to adulthood. And that’s the true goal of 4-H: increasing personal abilities and developing life skills that youth will apply to many new situations. Along the way, young people will become contributors to your community by learning caring, character, connection, confidence, and competence. The development of the five C’s and the opportunity for youth to contribute to their families, their communities, their schools, and their 4-H program is the pillar of 4-H youth development.
Push yourself beyond your comfort zone, find what you do best, try something new, and don’t miss out because you’re afraid to fail – 4-H is a safe place. All the while, remember that youth, parents, volunteers, and MSU Extension educators play an important role in the partnership that is 4-H. It’s a partnership of all working together for the benefit of youth. It is truly our hope that through 4-H we can help to build closer families, better citizens, and stronger communities.
4-H Events Calendar
National 4-H Events
- Western 4-H Roundup (Award Trip): First week of January
- National Conference: Early April
- Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF): mid-June
- Leadership Washington Focus (LWF): Late June/July
- National Congress: Last week of November
Montana 4-H Events
- Legislative Breakfast: Early January
- Citizenship Seminar: In Conjunction with Legislative Breakfast
- State Shoot: First week of March
- Rec Lab: March/April
- Pre-Congress: Prior to Congress
- Congress: 2nd week of July
- State Horse Show: September/October
- Ambassador Fall Training: 3rd weekend in October (MEA Weekend)
Award Due Dates
- Scholarships: April 1 (Recognition at Montana 4-H Congress)
- State Awards: May 1 (Recognition at Montana 4-H Congress)
- Volunteer Awards: May 1
- County Ambassador: June 1 Roster Opens*
- Officer Team Applications: June 15 (Officer Selection during Pre-Congress)*
* = Youth Leadership
Scan this QR code to view the complete Montana 4-H yearly calendar.
Welcome to Montana 4-H
The Montana 4-H Center for Youth Development serves as a resource to county faculty, local leaders, and youth in all counties and reservations as they learn by doing and make the best better. Listed below are staff members and a few of the major areas of responsibility associated with their position.
4-H Center for Youth Development
Order Online
Download project materials online:
‘4-H website’ items at www.montana4h.org
‘Available free online’ items at store.msuextension.org (Extension Publications) or ask your leader or MSU Extension agent
Visit MSU Extension’s online store: store.msuextension.org
4-H Publications
Extension Publications is located at 135 Culbertson Hall.
Table of Contents
Learn more about Record Books and Project Completion
All 4-H projects require the use of record books (see page 35) or visit the 4-H website: montana4h.org record book page.
Using this Guide
This guide lists all projects offered on a statewide basis to youth enrolling in 4-H clubs in Montana. Statewide projects are under priority initiatives of Science, Citizenship and Healthy Living. As you look for projects, all the information needed to enroll is here in the guide. See the example [below].
Example of a project listing and how to use it:
Cat (Subcategory Title)
The Subcategory Title section gives a general description of what can be learned by completing the projects within.
Cat, Level 1 (Project Title & Level)
The Project Title & Level section gives a more specific description of a project, what is involved and what can be learned. As levels increase, so do project requirements and learning challenges.
Project Requirements — This section explains what is needed to complete a project book and finish the project.
Materials — This section provides a material list for members and leaders. See letter key [above].
M Purr-fect Pals, BU8148, $6.25 (Material name, publication number and cost)
L Cat Group Helper’s Guide, BU8151, $6.25
Additional Resources for All Levels
(Additional project resource material will be listed at the end of each project section)
End of example.
4-H Clover Project Guidelines
The projects listed are all state supported projects available to Montana 4-H members for 2022–2023. Each project is followed by a description and listing of the materials needed to complete the project.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Check with your 4-H leader or Extension agent to see which projects are offered in your area. Not all projects listed in this guide may be available in your community.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Projects should be completed in order, starting with Level 1. Publication number is needed to order materials. Prices subject to change.
4-H Volunteerism Opportunities
Volunteerism and Leadership involves youth and adults in significant roles where they can help facilitate the growth and success of others. Opportunities to contribute in meaningful ways to your club, your community, your country and your world can be varied and numerous. Through these projects, you can help others, serve as a mentor, tutor or coach, and fill important leadership roles that contribute to the overall vitality of your community.
4-H Membership/Age Requirement
Any youth who is 5 years old on or before Oct. 1 may join a 4-H Cloverbud group.
Cloverbuds is a non-competitive educational program for youth ages 5 to 8 years of age and is the ONLY project they can enroll in.
Youth age 8 on or before Oct. 1 may join a regular 4-H club as a full member who can enroll in several different projects. Given the differing maturity and ability of youth this age, a family may choose to have their child continue in a Cloverbud group even though s/he will turn 9 during the coming year. If a youth is 19 years of age on or before Oct. 1, s/he is not eligible to re-enroll in 4-H unless still in high school.
4-H membership is open to all eligible youth. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Montana State University and Montana State University Extension prohibit discrimination in all of their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital and family status.
In recognition of the educational and developmental needs of youth, a general guideline is listed below to help determine which level of projects a youth might be enrolled in based on age.
Additional Projects
Some counties offer projects in addition to those listed in this publication. These projects usually meet a specific need within the county 4-H program. If you are interested in these, contact your MSU Extension office to find out more. Many projects also have opportunities for sharing and learning about your unique skills and talents through project achievement programs. Contact your Extension office to find out how to meet these goals.
4-H PRIORITY INITIATIVES
Science
For more than 100 years, 4-H has been a part of local communities trying new and innovative techniques to improve their quality of living. 4-H, with its connection to land-grant universities, has the ability to develop America’s future generation of scientists and engineers. In 4-H, youth use a rich and diverse set of research- based curricula and activities that provide hands-on, real-world experiences delivered in both informal and formal settings. Delivered through the 4-H program, science curriculum offers an extraordinary range of engaging and challenging activities for youth of all ages and abilities. Some examples include Robotics, Animal Quality Assurance and Veterinary Science.
Healthy Living
A core belief of 4-H is health, as evidenced by the four H’s in the 4-H clover: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. 4-H is committed to the physical, mental and emotional health of our nation’s youth so they may lead healthy and productive lives as youth and into adulthood. 4-H has become a national leader in health-related educational issues including chemical health, mental and emotional health, foods and nutrition, physical health and safety. Examples include Cooking 1–4 and Party Planning.
Citizenship
Since its inception, 4-H has placed emphasis on the importance of young people being engaged, well-informed citizens. By connecting to their communities and leaders, youth understand their role in civic affairs and are able to expand their role in decision-making processes. It’s clear that civic engagement provides the foundation that helps youth understand the “big picture” of life and learn the skill sets that allow them to become wise leaders for the 21st century. Citizenship Seminar, service learning and international programs are just a few of the many opportunities to learn about and contribute to our global society.
Keeping Records
Keeping records is an important part of completing each project. They help you set goals, keep track of your attendance at meetings, record your demonstrations or talks and a whole lot more.
All 4-H projects require the use of record books, see page 35 for record keeping materials.
OTHER PROJECTS
Cloverbuds
Montana 4-H includes a special program for youth five to seven years old called Cloverbuds. Youngsters in the Cloverbud project work with other children on selected 4-H activities from a structured curriculum that is fun, hands-on and discovery-oriented. Youth of this age group enroll ONLY in this project and activities are non- competitive. Youth can explore horse and other animal projects, but can’t enroll in them. Through Cloverbuds, children can develop age-appropriate skills and abilities. Guidelines for this project are different from those of the traditional 4-H program.
Each 4-H Activity Book is designed to be used for one year. Rotate through the books in the three years a member may be a Cloverbud. The Cloverbud Activity Book is designed to introduce Cloverbuds to many different 4-H areas. The booklets provide activities in Animal Sciences/Animal Life, Visual Arts, Family, Home, Health, Science and Natural Resources. The record sheet is included in the project book.
Exploring 4-H
Exploring 4-H is for beginning members in second through fourth grade, providing a “treasure hunt” for youth to explore the joys of 4-H by discovering their interests, potential 4-H projects, and finding 4-H where they live. Activities are organized into eight categories that can help youth explore 4-H activities.
Independent Study/Advanced
Independent study is for any youth looking for new challenges and opportunities in 4-H. This allows a member to explore topics that have not been investigated while remaining enrolled in a 4-H project. Members enrolling in the independent study phase of a project should develop a detailed learning plan for their work. They should identify an area of interest within the project area, set goals and locate resources (people, publications, materials) to carry out a project plan. They then determine specific experiences needed to accomplish project goals, set a realistic timeline for completion, carry out the project learning plan, share experiences with others, evaluate outcomes and determine what could be improved.
The individualized learning plan should be approved by a parent, 4-H adult volunteer leader or 4-H agent. For assistance in developing a personal learning contract, use self-determined project materials or other goal-setting materials. While independent study provides flexibility and creativity, it also requires serious planning, implementation and evaluation.
Self-determined
Self-determined offers an opportunity to develop and carry out a project of individual design. This means selecting a topic, deciding goals, obtaining resources and designing records. The member is responsible for developing the project with advice or direction of an adult. This project can cover any subject and may be related to any current 4-H project. Examples include ceramics, bookkeeping, and outdoor cooking. In some areas, counties offer projects. Design a project of special interest to you, as the success depends on your initiative. Those who select a worthwhile topic and become intrigued often do some of the best and most rewarding 4-H work. The member’s manual and leader’s guide suggest ways to proceed.
Evaluate your project by determining the extent to which the goals were accomplished, what was learned and how it could be improved.
ANIMAL SCIENCE
Animal Science projects teach subject matter related to each animal while helping develop life skills. In each level, choose from a variety of learning goals to develop an inquiring mind and a desire to seek out the scientific principles involved in raising and marketing livestock. You can develop leadership, initiative, self- reliance and sportsmanship through project activities. You’ll learn to accept responsibility by having an animal to care for regularly and the principles of animal nutrition. Through animal science projects you also learn to care for, train and handle animals safely. Practice taking care of equipment and evaluate several methods of performing a task. You’ll better understand and apply research in making wise decisions and investments and use it in managing animals and planning goals. Animal science projects are designed to stimulate your interest as you explore the livestock industry or establish a profitable livestock business of your own.
Are “We” ready for a 4-H Livestock Project?
Parents: Showing an animal at the county fair is an educational and memorable experience for youth in the 4-H Livestock projects. Showing livestock builds confidence and character in young people. They learn how to select, care for and keep records on their project. From the time that an animal project is started until it is finished the youth is responsible for a major part of the daily care of their project.
Successful 4-H members have caring adults in their lives who are truly enthusiastic about projects the member is taking. It is important that adults offer supervision, assistance and encouragement to the 4-H’ers. As an adult if you are willing to help in these ways, it will make a difference. However, be aware that while having caring adults is clearly important, it is equally important that parents and other adults not go too far with helping. It is important to support and assist to a reasonable extent, but not to do the chores and requirements called for by the project for the child. It is also inappropriate for a professional to own, care for or groom the project animals.
Families are encouraged to have realistic conversations about the time and other resources that animal projects require. Animal projects will take a minimum of one hour daily to care for the basic needs, such as feeding, watering and vet care of the animal. Market beef projects typically start in November or December and continue through July or August. Pig, sheep and goat market projects start in April or May and continue through July or August. Training and preparing an animal for show will take several additional hours per day. Breeding projects are a year-round commitment for both the member and family.
Each county fair or show in Montana will have its own unique rules and guidelines. It is the member’s responsibility to read and understand the regulations and rules that govern their project and the shows they want to participate in. It is suggested that the youth obtain a copy of the county information that is specific to their project before they start the project.
Making a Decision
The family has decided to commit to the responsibility of owning animals and supporting youth members in taking a livestock project. Which Project? Below are several questions that should be answered as a family, to help prepare you for ownership of an animal.
- What are the goals for this project?
- What species will be raised?
- Will only market animals be raised, or will the project expand into breeding?
- How many animals can we feed at one time?
- How will we market the animal(s)? (both breeding and market)
- How much time and money do we have and want to invest?
- What are our facilities suitable for? Do they need improvement?
- Do we have the resources available to provide proper health care?
- Are we comfortable with selecting animals to purchase?
- Is there someone in the community that can help us select animals?
- What are the regulations at the local fair?
- Will we be showing in other fairs or jackpot shows?
- How will we transport the animals?
A great way to gather information is to attend and observe a show as a family. At the show you will see firsthand some of the work and commitment that is part of a livestock project. In addition, it is a great chance to meet and talk to exhibitors and producers. Most of these people are happy to share thoughts and suggestions. It is important to develop good relationships with other producers as they are a great source of information.
Montana 4-H Animal Quality Assurance Policy
Montana 4-H believes in the ethical treatment of all animals, as part of this mission, all 4-H members (and a parent or guardian) enrolled in any animal project, including breeding projects, must become certified through Animal Quality Assurance training at least once as a junior 4-H member and recertify once as a senior 4-H member. All new members are required to complete a county Animal Quality Assurance training workshop in their first year.
Discuss options with your county agent to determine the requirements and recertification opportunities available. In some counties, senior 4-H members, if previously certified, may recertify through county AQA training, by successfully completing an official online course offered by industry associations or universities, or by teaching AQA to younger members. Some counties require beginners (age 8–10) to take the class and then again as a junior (age 11–13).
General Project Requirements
By completing the minimum requirements at each level, you’ll learn about every part of the project and be ready for the next level. The achievement program will help you set goals, record successes and be recognized for good work. Each level can take several years to complete. You are not expected to complete a level each year. In some projects, more than one level can be completed in a year if you are highly motivated. Remember, keeping records is an important part of every livestock project.
Beef
Beef is an excellent way to learn about an important industry in Montana and the rest of the nation. Through this project, you can learn about all aspects of the beef industry, either by directly caring for a calf or by learning about beef through the 4-H achievement program in each level. You may raise a market calf or manage a breeding animal at any level. Youth wishing to enroll in Market Beef or Breeding Beef must also be enrolled in Level 1, 2, or 3. If you enroll in independent study, you are expected to have already completed the three levels of the beef project and have set some learning goals for independent work.
Beef, Level 1
Enroll in Market and/or Breeding when registering
Level 1 activities are for youth who may or may not have their own calf. If you don’t own a calf, these activities will help you decide if you want to raise calves by learning more about them. In this level, learn about beef cattle, breed identification, locating parts on a steer, judging, halter breaking, fitting a steer, showing a calf, recognizing a healthy animal, selecting feed ingredients and how to shop for beef and beef by-products.
It may take up to three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and three learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Bite Into Beef, BU8143, $6.25
Beef, Level 2
Enroll in Market and/or Breeding when registering
Once you’ve completed the achievement requirements in level one, you’re ready for Here’s the Beef. In this level, learn about leg structure, how to present oral reasons in judging, feed ingredients, beef behavior, nose printing, parasites, fitting your market beef, ethical issues, beef carcass composition and retail meat cuts.
It may take three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Here’s the Beef, BU8144, $6.25
Beef, Level 3
Enroll in Market and/or Breeding when registering
As an advanced member, you have several opportunities to share your knowledge and experience about beef cattle with other members. You’ll also gain leadership skills as you help others learn about cattle. In this level, teach others about beef cattle, explore career opportunities, and learn about selection, judging, fees, health, reproduction, meats and marketing.
It may take as long as three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Leading the Charge, BU8145, $6.25
Additional Resources for All Levels
Beef Independent Study/Advanced (see pg 6)
Cat
Cat will help you learn more about one of our most common household pets. Explore all kinds of things about cats–from nutrition to showing–and learn the basics about care and companionship.
Cat, Level 1
This level is for youth who may or may not have a cat of their own. The important thing is you want to learn more about cats and care about animals. If you don’t have a cat, activities in this level will help you decide whether you want a cat in the future. In the project, learn about breeds of cats, cost of raising a cat, and how to care for and groom a cat.
Take up to three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and three learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Purr-fect Pals, BU8148, $6.25
Cat, Level 2
After completing level one, you will advance to level two. Besides learning a lot about yourself and practicing important life skills, you will learn about organizations that have information about cats, how to show a cat, how to train a cat, about careers related to cats, how to read and understand a feed label, about external parasites that can affect cats and more.
Take up to three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Climbing Up, BU8149, $6.25
Cat, Level 3
Designed for advanced members, this project offers a variety of ways to share knowledge and experience and develop leadership skills. In this level, learn how to develop a business plan, learn about genetics, explore career choices, organize a cat quiz bowl, research cat laws, and learn about diseases, reproduction, behavior and showmanship.
Take up to three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Leaping Forward, BU8150, $6.25
Additional Resources for All Levels
Dairy Cattle
The Dairy Project is for members who want to learn more about dairy animals. If ownership is not possible, this project allows you to have a contract with a dairy to care for one or more animals. Members usually start with a heifer calf or yearling heifer. Older members may start with a producing cow. Keep milk production records on all producing cows, using Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHIA) guidelines. This project also provides an opportunity to start with a calf and raise it to a producing cow.
Dairy Cattle, Level 1
This level is for beginning members who may or may not own a dairy animal. Through the activities in this level, you will learn about the parts of the dairy cow, various dairy breeds and the cost to raise a calf. You will also learn how to care for a dairy animal and how to recognize desirable traits when selecting calves. If you don’t already have a dairy animal, some activities in this level will help you decide whether you want to raise dairy cattle in the future. It may take up to three years to complete this level.
You must complete a minimum of seven activities and three learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Cowabunga!, BU8161, $6.25
Dairy Cattle, Level 2
Level 2 offers new challenges and opportunities to explore a range of activities related to dairy cattle and the dairy industry. In this level, learn about housing, hay quality, milking, animal health, parasites, behavior and food safety. You will also learn about ethical decision-making, judging and careers.
You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Mooving Ahead, BU8162, $6.25
Dairy Cattle, Level 3
Whether you raise one calf or several cows, you are in an excellent position to share knowledge and experiences with others. You’ll also find activities to help manage your herd, practice mastitis detection, balance a ration, detect pregnancy and deliver a calf. Learn about body condition scoring, selecting cattle through records, promoting dairy products and exploring career opportunities.
You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Rising to the Top, BU8163, $6.25
Additional Resources for All Levels
Dairy Cattle Independent Study/Advanced (see pg 6)
Dog
Dog is perfect for youth who are interested in learning more about dogs, how to care for a dog, and how to train a dog in basic or advanced commands. The dog project is unique and not meant to conform to AKC dog show or other professional standards. Although beginners do not need to own a dog to participate in the first level of the project, more advanced levels do require dog ownership. Youth can sign up for Dog Obedience and Dog Agility to supplement their learning experience but must enroll in Level 1, 2 or 3.
Dog, Level 1
Enroll in Obedience and/or Agility when registering
In level 1, the activities are for those who may or may not have a dog of their own, but want to learn more. If you don’t have a dog, some activities in this level may help you decide whether you want to make the commitment to own and care for a dog. Learn about basic care, training, breeds, parts of the dog, and how to keep a dog healthy and groomed.
Take up to three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and three learning experiences each year to complete the project.
M Wiggles and Wags, BU8166, $6.25
Dog, Level 2
Enroll in Obedience and/or Agility when registering
Level 2 offers opportunities and challenges to explore a wide range of activities related to dogs. Dog ownership is necessary to participate in this level. Explore more about dog health, nutrition, care, genetic problems, population control, showmanship, training, ethics and budgeting.
Take up to three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Canine Connection, BU8167, $6.25
Dog, Level 3
Enroll in Obedience and/or Agility when registering
In this level, you will focus on advanced skills in dog training and management. By this level you may be ready to compete in AKC trials. You will investigate responsible breeding, diseases, caring for geriatric dogs, training, service dogs, dog roles and careers related to dogs. You will also be presented with many leadership opportunities.
Take up to three years to complete this level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Leading the Pack, BU8168, $6.25
Additional Resources for All Levels
Dog Independent Study/Advanced (see pg 6)
Dairy Goat
Although beginners do not need to own a goat, the more advanced levels of the project are designed for those who have one or more goats to care for. Raise a goat for milk, mohair, or even for packing. Youth wishing to enroll in Breeding Goat must also be enrolled in Level 1, 2 or 3.
Dairy Goat, Level
Enroll in Breeding when registering
You will learn about both dairy goats (raised primarily for milk) and Angora goats (raised for mohair). Learn about the parts of the goat, breeds, costs to raise a goat, and how to care for a goat while developing important life skills.
This level may take up to three years to complete. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and three learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Getting Your Goat, BU8352, $6.25
Dairy Goat, Level 2
Enroll in Breeding when registering
You’ll learn how to keep your goat healthy, feed them for maximum production, prepare for kidding, develop judging skills and milk a goat properly.
This level may take up to three years to complete. You must complete at least seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Stepping Out, BU8353, $6.25
Dairy Goat, Level 3
Enroll in Breeding when registering
Advanced 4-H members learn about genetics and breeding, careers in the goat industry, diseases, biosecurity, body condition scoring, pedigrees and quality assurance. At this level, you are in an excellent position to share knowledge and experiences with others.
This level may take up to three years to complete. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Showing the Way, BU8354, $6.25
Additional Resources for All Levels
S Goat Resource Handbook, 4H135R, $21.75
L Goat Helper’s Guide, BU8355, $6.25. Plan group meetings to get youth involved and excited to learn about goats. Youth will enjoy playing goat-related games, conducting skill-a-thons, giving demonstrations, participating in showmanship contests and other fun group activities.
Dairy Goat Independent Study/Advanced (see pg 6)
Meat Goat
Meat Goat is designed for members who want to learn about breeds of meat goats, health care, grooming, production, reproduction, management, showmanship, marketing and careers. Youth wishing to enroll in Market Goat or Breeding Goat must also be enrolled in Level 1, 2, or 3.
Meat Goat, Level 1
Enroll in Market and/or Breeding when registering
Learn about goat breeds and selection, feeding and management, goat health, goat body parts, record keeping, meat goat and dairy conformation, show preparations and sportsmanship.
This level may take up to three years to complete. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and three learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Just Browsing, BU7909, $6.25
Meat Goat, Level 2
Enroll in Market and/or Breeding when registering
Learn about goat diseases, identify poisonous plants, determine body conditions, water quality, goat predators, kidding, goat reproduction, the veterinary profession, selecting stock and showing meat goats.
This level may take up to three years to complete. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and three learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Growing with Meat Goats, BU7910, $6.25
Meat Goat, Level 3
Enroll in Market and/or Breeding when registering
Discover how to select breeding sires, balance a ration, prevent diseases, control internal and external parasites, practice biosecurity, practice sound ethics, conduct a meat goat judging clinic, judge goats, give oral reasons and explore meat goat products.
This level may take up to three years to complete. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and three learning experiences each year to complete this project.
M Meating the Future, BU7911, $6.25
Additional Resources for All Levels
Meat Goat Independent Study/Advanced (see pg 6)
Horse
Horse projects provide youth with an opportunity to handle, care for, ride or drive horses. There are nine horse projects. Members must have completed levels 1–3 in Horsemanship to participate in the Advanced Horse Projects. Members are eligible to participate in Horse projects according to ability and skill level. SKILL LEVELS DO NOT NECESSARILY CORRESPOND TO YEARS. It is possible to complete several levels in a year; or youth may take several years to complete one level. Assessment checklists are provided in the Horse Project Helper’s Guide for leaders to determine when a member completes the levels.
Montana Horse Helmet Policy
A certified equestrian helmet with safety harness fastened is required in over fence classes and gymkhana events, activities and practice sessions. Gymkhana refers to horseback speed events (timed or un-timed) that do not use livestock. Events in this category include, but are not limited to barrel racing, pole bending, keyhole, stake, rescue races, pony express race, etc. Events not included in this policy are calf roping, team roping, goat tying, and team penning that may be timed, but use livestock. Participants in the 4-H Horse Project are required to attend a helmet education workshop and/or view the video “Every Time, Every Ride” once as a junior 4-H member (8–13) and once as a senior 4-H member (14 and up). It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian of the 4-H member to see that headgear complies with standards and is in good condition. The Montana 4-H Center for Youth Development encourages the use of ASTM certified/SEI approved safety helmets in all equine events. Protective headgear may be used in all classes and shall not be discriminated against.
Helmet use is encouraged in all 4-H horse activities any time a 4-H member is around a horse. Counties may establish more stringent policies regarding helmet use.
L Every Time Every Ride DVD (Horse Helmets), 5324, $15.50
Horsemanship
Horsemanship is the basis for the horse project. Members must complete Horsemanship levels 1, 2 and 3 before entering another Horse project, with the exception of Horse Judging, Careers with Horses, Horse Showing and Packing, and Working Ranch Horse, which may be taken simultaneously with a mounted horse level. (See project descriptions for specific assessment requirements.) Horsemanship has seven levels. Depending on riding form, use the following to enroll in the appropriate level.
| Western | English |
| Level 1 | Level 1 |
| Level 2 | Level 2 |
| Level 3 | Level 3 |
| Level 4 | Level 4 |
| Level 5 | Level 5 |
| Level 6 | Level 6 |
| Level 7 | Level 7 |
NOTE: Remember, for the state horse show, you can show only one level above or below the level in which you are enrolled.
Horseless Horse
If you currently do not have a horse but think one day you will and will want to participate in other horse projects, you should enroll in this project. As a “Horseless Horse” project member, you can also participate in horse judging and horse career projects without your own horse.
Horseless Horse, Level 1
Learn how to identify parts of a horse, horse behavior, horse breeds, costs of raising a horse, how to care for a horse, horse facilities, horse safety rules and more. Learning about horses is not all you’ll do. You’ll have the opportunity to present a demonstration, take tours, watch a horse show and attend a horse clinic.
Do at least seven of the required and optional activities in Level 1. Complete at least 21 of the required and optional activities in Level 1 within three years to complete this project.
M Giddy Up and Go, 01518Y, $8.45
Horseless Horse, Level 2
Learn about selecting a horse, nutrition, care, teeth, bones, judging and how to give oral reasons.
Do at least seven of the required and optional activities in Level 2. Complete at least 21 of the required and optional activities in Level 2 within three years to complete this project.
M Head, Heart and Hooves, 01519Y, $8.45
Horseless Horse, Level 3
This level of the horseless horse project rounds your knowledge about horses and prepares you for eventual horse ownership. In this level, explore horse reproduction, diseases, health care and pasture management. Learn about appropriate shelters and financial planning, and be equipped to teach others about horses.
Do at least seven of the required and optional activities in Level 3. Complete at least 21 of the required and optional activities in Level 3 with three years to complete this project.
M Stable Relationships, 01520Y, $8.45
Horseless Horse, Level 4
Learn nine basic riding skills and 10 horsemanship skills. Also learn training techniques, all about trail riding and selection and use of tack.
Do at least seven of the required and optional activities in Level 4. Complete at least 21 of the required and optional activities in Level 4 within three years to complete this project.
M Riding the Range, 01521Y, $8.45
Horseless Horse, Level 5
Learn more advanced riding skills. Also learn the Quarter System, horse showmanship, ethics and leadership.
Do at least seven of the required and optional activities in Level 5. Complete at least 21 of the required and optional activities in Level 5 within three years to complete this project.
M Jumping to New Heights, 01522Y, $8.45
Additional Resources for All Levels
L Horse Project Helper’s Guide, 01523F, $8.45. Features group activities such as Horse Bingo, You be the Judge, Corral Your Character and Skill-a-thons.
Additional Horse Projects
Colt to Maturity, Levels 1–5
This project is for those who own or have available a colt or filly to care for and train. This is a five-year progressive project beginning with a yearling. The project is designed to help you select a foal and train it to maturity. In order to enroll in this project, you must be 11 on Oct. 1; have completed Horsemanship levels 1, 2 and 3; and demonstrated ability to handle the project to the county horse leader or designated person. Stallions will be allowed only in the yearling phase. Check with local county fair rules on exhibiting.
The Project Leader or Agent can assist the member in setting goals for each project year. Completion of these goals will satisfy the requirements of this project.
Working Ranch Horse, Levels 1–4
This project prepares you and your horse for general ranch work including roping, cutting, and penning. Also learn the heritage and traditions of the American cowboy. Competitions (called gatherings) may be offered at the county or regional level.
4-H members may enroll in the 4-H Working Ranch Horse Project independently or concurrently with the Horsemanship Project Levels 1–7 depending on county requirements. Skills assessments determine the project level of each participant and are conducted on the county level.
M Working Ranch Horse, Levels 1–4, 5250, $7.50
Horse Packing, Levels 1–5
This project develops your knowledge and skills in the art and science of using horses to transport materials. This project also provides opportunities for enjoying nature in a way that is otherwise difficult. Members may enroll in this project simultaneously with any other mounted horse project.
The project leader or agent can assist the member in setting goals for each project year. Completion of these goals will satisfy the requirements of this project.
M 4-H Horse Packing Manual, 5251, $3.50
Horse Driving, Levels 1–4
This is a project to teach basic horse driving skills, safety and training a horse to drive in single or multiple hitches. Members must have completed assessment for horse projects to participate in this project.
The project leader or agent can assist the member in setting goals for each project year. Completion of these goals will satisfy the requirements of this project.
M 4-H Horse Driving Project, 5252, $3.50
Horse Judging
This project teaches you to select and evaluate horses, give oral reasons and place classes of conformation horses and performance horses. Members may enroll in this project simultaneously with any mounted horse project.
The project leader or agent can assist the member in setting goals for each project year. Completion of these goals will satisfy the requirements of this project.
M New Mexico 4-H Horse Judging Manual, 200R48, available free online
Green Horse, Levels 1–4
This project is for those who have horses that are not fully trained, but don’t fit into the colt to maturity project because of age or ability. To participate in this project, you must be 11 on Oct. 1; have completed Horsemanship levels 1, 2 and 3; and have demonstrated an ability to handle the project to the county horse leader or designated person.
The project leader or agent can assist the member in setting goals for each project year. Completion of these goals will satisfy the requirements of this project.
M 4-H Green Horse, Levels 1–4, 5256, $3.50
M 4-H Training Horses, Yearlings to Five-Year-Olds and Green Horses, 5336, $3.50
M 4-H Horse Showing Project Manual, 5253, $3.50
Careers with Horses
This project is intended to acquaint you with careers in the horse industry and may be taken simultaneously with any mounted horse project.
The project leader or agent can assist the member in setting goals for each project year. Completion of these goals will satisfy the requirements of this project.
M 4-H Horse Careers Manual, 5255, $2.50
Horse Independent Study/Advanced (see pg 6)