To register for the Calf Project, youth will need to complete a short application (call 828-465-8240 to get one) and return it with payment of $150 to the Extension office by January 17.  All participating youth are required to attend the Project Orientation on the evening of January 19. During the orientation, participating families will get more detailed information about preparing a place for the calf and caring for the calf during the first few weeks. Clinics are provided through the project duration for youth to get more instruction about showing and caring for their calf. Youth will have the chance to show their calf in at least two youth livestock shows during the spring and summer.  The project concludes with youth showing their calf at the Catawba County Fair. The calves are sold following the final fair show, with the proceeds going back to each participant. Each youth will also need to record their experiences and submit a 4-H Project Book in the late Fall to conclude the project. 

Youth participating will receive the 2-week old calf in early February.  Youth will need to care for the calf and work with it daily to prepare it for showing. The calves are typically 50-75 pounds when youth receive them and will grow to weigh as much as 600 pounds by the fair. By participating in the project youth will learn about animal science and care needed for large livestock animals and also develop a sense of responsibility. 

Youth are encouraged to participate in the 4-H Livestock Club to learn more about caring for livestock and connect with other farm families. The 4-H Livestock Club meets on the 1st Monday of the month at 6:30 pm. At the Agricultural Resources Center. The family-oriented club is for youth ages 5-18 and is the oldest chartered 4-H club in Catawba County.    Alisha Lidke is the leader for the 4-H Livestock Club and chairs the Calf Project Committee.