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- 4-H Youth Development
- Projects
- Animal Science
- Dairy Cattle
Got milk? The dairy project is for youth wanting to learn more about caring, raising and managing dairy animals. Get started with a heifer calf or yearling heifer and learn how to select, lead and show. 4-H members with mature cows learn about feeding and milk production.
Things to Learn and Do
Every 4-H project offers a variety of activities and learning opportunities to suit your interests and strengths. Whether you're just getting started or taking your knowledge to the next level, there are several activities to learn and do throughout your project experience!
Beginner
- Identify the six breeds of dairy cattle
- Identify the body parts of a cow
- Select and raise a diary calf
Intermediate
- Judge a class of diary cows
- Discuss animal health issues
- Identify safe practices for handling milk and milk products
Advanced
- Evaluate the body condition of dairy animals
- Learn about animal welfare issues
- Determine the nutritional quality of dairy feed
- Explore career options in the dairy industry
Project Materials
Reasonably priced materials are available for every project in Kansas 4-H. You can order the materials for your project online or contact your local Extension Office.
Dairy Bucket Calf (DC100)
Dairy Heifer (DC200)
Dairy Cow (DC300)
Project Leader Resources
General Dairy Cattle Resources
Related Resources - Veterinary Science
- From Airdales to Zebras (ages 7-10)
- All Systems Go (ages 11-13)
- On the Cutting Edge (ages 14+)
- Veterinary Science Helper's Guide
- Nebraska 4-H Veterinary Science
- Holstein Foundation Educational Workbooks (7 including Dairy Judging and Showmanship)
- February 2016 Dairyline
- June 2015 Dairyline
- Fall 2014 Dairyline
Events and Activities
Learn more about project-based events here or contact your local office for additional information.
Awards and Recognition
*Includes both Dairy Cattle and Dairy Goats
County Level
Medal presented at your 4-H award recognition event
State Level
Medallion and Scholarship to attend National 4-H Congress
- Participants may attend National 4-H Congress once as an active 4-H member
National Level
Represent Kansas at National 4-H Congress
Next Steps - Career Exploration
Completing a successful 4-H project is just the beginning of finding your spark. Members can take several meaningful steps to further develop skills and interests. Learn more about these exciting opportunities in career exploration: