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Through this project, you can learn about all aspects of the pork industry, either by directly caring for a hog or by learning about swine. At any level you may enroll in market pig or breeding pig. Youth wishing to enroll in Market Swine or Breeding Swine must also be enrolled in Level 1, 2, or 3. If you enroll in the independent study, you are expected to have already completed the three levels of the swine project and to have set some learning goals for your independent work.

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 swine, students will learn

  • identify the parts of a pig
  • breeds
  • how to judge market hogs
  • explore the digestive system
  • identify pork cuts
  • how to fit
  • show a hog

At level 2 of swine, students will learn

  • herd health
  • pork production from farrow to finish
  • cooking and preparing pork products
  • careers in agriculture
  • symptoms of swine disease
  • develop a pig health plan
  • balance a ration
  • present oral reasons on a class of hogs

At level 3 of swine, students will learn

  • teach others about pigs
  • explore career opportunities in the swine industry
  • organize a judging and showmanship clinic
  • plan a swine quiz bowl
  • operate and manage a swine breeding operation
  • managing waste
  • explore genetics

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

 

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. 

Download record book sheet

 

Careers in Swine

If you are wanting to explore careers in swine, 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.