Projects
In 4-H, a project is a hands-on learning experience that youth explore throughout the 4-H year using research-based curriculum and the support of local volunteers and MSU Extension agents.
Explore projects available in your area
Each county/reservation has their own projects. If there is a project you're interested in joining or starting, you can start by reaching out to your local MSU Extension agent. Agents can be found on their county/reservation website.
Montana 4-H project selection guide
For families first learning about projects, the 4-H Clover is a great tool to help 4-H members find their interests and see what skills they want to grow in.
Using this Guide
This guide lists all projects offered on a statewide basis to youth enrolling in 4-H clubs in Montana. All the information needed to enroll is included. See the example below.
Materials Key
M: Materials for the 4-H member enrolling in the project
L: Materials for 4-H leaders
S: Supplemental materials for leaders and/or members. These materials are optional.
Keeping Records
All 4-H members complete a record book as part of their project work. A record book is a simple way to document your goals, activities, learning, and achievements throughout the year. It helps you track your progress, reflect on what you have learned, and demonstrate your growth within each project. Learn more about record book requirements and resources.
4-H Requirements and Guidelines
Covers information about age requirements, clover project guidelines, calls for volunteering, project requirement examples and the experiential learning model. View the 4-H requirements and guidelines.
Fair
The fair is a time-honored tradition of the 4-H experience—a time when months of learning and perseverance come together. It is more than an event; it is an opportunity for youth, families, volunteers, and communities to work together toward a common goal. Throughout the fair,4-H members continue to learn through hands-on experiences, gain new life skills, and make lasting friendships. It is also a time to proudly showcase the many accomplishments achieved over the year, from projects and exhibits to personal growth. Most importantly, the fair is a celebration—of achievement, of attachment, and of the connections that make 4-H a meaningful and lasting experience.
Just as each 4-H members is unique, each 4-H program has special and distinctive requirements for fair. Please reach out to your local Extension Office to learn more about the specific program expectations and guidelines.
Beyond Ready Initiative
Montana 4-H is part of the national 4-H Beyond Ready initiative to prepare youth to become healthy, productive, and engaged leaders who are ready for work and life.
Through hands-on learning and positive youth development, 4-H helps young people build confidence, leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while discovering their interests and strengths. By creating meaningful opportunities for growth and connection, Montana 4-H empowers youth to thrive in an ever-changing world.
4-H projects and programs help youth explore real-world experiences in areas such as agriculture, science, technology, healthy living, leadership, civic engagement, creative arts, and career readiness. Whether learning through robotics, livestock projects, nutrition and cooking, outdoor education, entrepreneurship, public speaking, or service-learning opportunities, youth gain practical skills and experiences that prepare them for future success. Through these project areas, young people are encouraged to explore new interests, develop responsibility, and grow skills that extend far beyond the 4-H experience.
The Beyond Ready initiative recognizes that preparing youth for the future goes beyond academics alone. Montana 4-H focuses on helping youth build a strong sense of belonging, meaningful relationships with peers and caring adults, and the ability to adapt, lead, and contribute within their communities. Through clubs, camps, workshops, competitions, leadership opportunities, and community partnerships, 4-H supports youth in becoming engaged citizens and confident leaders who are ready to make a positive impact now and in the future.
Last updated: 9/10/2026
