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.
It may take three years to complete a level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
Projects to learn
At level 1 of beef, students will learn
- cattle selection
- breeds
- management
- health
- reproduction and genetics
- nutrition and feeding
- carcass evaluation
- showing cattle
- marketing
At level 2 of beef, students will learn
- 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
- retail meat cuts
At level 3 of beef, students will learn
- teaching others by sharing knowledge
- explore career opportunitites
- learn about selection
- judging
- fees
- health
- reproduction
- meats and marketing
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
- identify an area of interest within the project area
- set goals and locate resources (people, publications, materials) to carry out a project plan
- 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.
PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
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 Design Your Own project materials or other goal-setting materials. While independent study provides flexibility and creativity, it also requires serious planning, implementation and evaluation.
Materials you'll need
M Here’s the Beef, BU8144
M Leading the Charge, BU8145
M You Decide, 5314
L Helping Them Decide, 5315
S Beef Resource Handbook for Market, Breeding and Feeder Calf Projects, 4H117R
L Beef Helper’s Guide, BU8146 Find a variety of group learning activities, including skill-a-thons, quiz bowls, games, presentations, Beef Bingo and several management skill activities.
Animal Record book
To complete a project, you'll need to have an animal record book sheet filled out and signed by a program leader. Record books focus on reflecting on what you did and learned, along with keeping track of finances spent taking care of and selling an animal.
Careers in Beef
If you are wanting to explore careers in beef, below are some of the potential routes you can take. 4-H members interested in going to college can also visit the 4-H foundation website for scholarships in their county or reservation.
