Did you know that there are six recognized breeds of dairy cattle? In New Jersey and many other states in our country, black and white Holsteins are the predominant breed because of their higher production levels. But in other parts of the world, other breeds are often more common. Most of the dairy breeds are from the British Isles or European countries. A good place to start … [Read more...]
New 4-H Turkey Project: Animal Science and Community Service
This year, New Jersey 4-H is introducing a Turkey project, offering the chance to engage families in poultry science and community service by raising turkeys for families in need for Thanksgiving. The 4-H Turkey Raising And Youth (TRAY) project is for families who wish to participate in a community service project while also learning how to raise turkeys that will be donated … [Read more...]
An Idea that Works: Managing Group Work During STEM Club Meetings
In 4-H we often strive to make everything we do “youth centered”, meaning we want the young people to drive the conversation, tasks, and goals of the club. This builds leadership skills in youth and helps them learn how to communicate effectively with each other. As a club leader, it can be challenging to figure out how to be the “guide on the side” and mentor as opposed to … [Read more...]
4-Hers to Learn from Rutgers Professors at Cook Campus Farm Event, March 30
Several Rutgers professors and farm staff will lead hands-on sessions about horses, cattle, goats, sheep, poultry, and rabbits at this year’s Junior Breeder Livestock Symposium, Saturday, March 30. 4-H families and clubs are encouraged to make the trip to their state university in New Brunswick to visit Rutgers, learn from the experts, and see the animals at the Cook Campus … [Read more...]
Expanded 4-H Animal Science Video Contest! – Entries Due March 11
Good news - the 4-H Sheep and Goat Video Contest has been expanded! It has been renamed the New Jersey 4-H Animal Science Video Contest and will now accept entries about several other animal project areas, in addition to sheep and goats. Youth may work individually or as a team to create 3-minute educational videos about horses, poultry, rabbits, dairy/beef cattle, swine, … [Read more...]
“How Swine-wise Are You?” – The Things You Learn (AND REMEMBER!) In 4-H
One of the stars of the ABC sitcom Modern Family is Emmy Award winning actor Eric Stonestreet. A native of Kansas City, Kansas, Eric is a proud 4-H alum. In June of 2017, Eric was a guest on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. As most guests do, Eric spent a large part of the interview discussing his ongoing projects (such as Modern Family). At around the 6:20 mark of the … [Read more...]
4-Hers LOVE this chew toy community service project
Community Service is a value of all 4-H programming, regardless of project area. If you are looking for a fun and interactive community service project to benefit animals, consider asking your 4-H club members, campers, or afterschool program participants to bring in old t-shirts. Not only will they be cleaning out their closets--they can turn these old shirts into doggie chew … [Read more...]
Ideas for a Howling Good Time
October is a great time for 4-H dog clubs to host a fun, social event for their members. It's also the perfect time for new and returning club members to mix and mingle. The following are ideas from several New Jersey 4-H dog clubs. Take a look and see which activities fit with your club's plans for the fall season. If you're planning a club field trip, be sure to plan … [Read more...]
Animal Science in 4-H Public Presentations: Start Planning Now!
The school year, and a new 4-H year, are just beginning! But it is never too early for 4-H’ers to start thinking about club, county, state or national public presentation opportunities. How can you explore and showcase knowledge of animal science topics in a 4-H public presentation? Here are some ideas: Demonstration: This is already common practice in many counties. If … [Read more...]
S.M.A.R.T. Goals in the Dog Project
It's a new 4-H year! This is a great time to set new goals for yourself in the coming year. What do you want to accomplish this year? What skills do you want to develop? How will you provide new and fun challenges for your dog to strengthen your bond? The New Jersey 4-H Dog Project Record Book is a great resource to help 4-H members set goals for both themselves and their … [Read more...]