Beef | Tennessee 4-H Youth Development

The 4-H Beef Project gives youth hands-on experience in raising, caring for, and showing beef cattle. Through this project, participants learn responsibility, animal care, and recordkeeping, while building confidence and leadership skills. It’s part of the broader 4-H Animal Science Program, which helps young people explore agriculture through real-life learning with animals such as beef, dairy, goats, poultry, sheep, swine, and horses.

Beef Project Snapshot

Shows and Events

From county fairs to regional and state-level events, 4-H members have many opportunities to exhibit their beef projects throughout the year. Showing cattle is not only fun—it’s a chance to demonstrate the hard work and dedication put into your project.

To find local shows near you, contact your county Extension office.

The Tennessee State 4-H Beef Expo also features additional contests such as:

Skillathons
Graphic Design Contest
Sales Talks
And more!

For Tennessee 4-H State Beef Expo details and resources, click the link!

TN State Beef Expo Resources

Beef Project Toolkit

Beginning: 1-2 years in the Project

Intermediate: 3-5 years in the Pro ject

Advanced: 6-9 years in the Project

Coming Soon!

Follow the links below to find some great online resources for your project.

Create a beef breed poster – Research different breeds and share key traits.
Learn basic beef cattle terms – Build a vocabulary list with illustrations.
Keep a feeding and care log – Track what your animal eats and daily care.
Study beef by-products – Make a display or give a talk about where beef products are used.
Enter a sales talk or graphic design contest – Promote beef products or your project.
Study genetics and breeding – Track pedigrees and learn how traits are passed on.
Cattle health journal – Track vaccinations, deworming, and vet visits.
Beef cattle growth study – Record weight gain and calculate average daily gain (ADG).
Technology in beef production – Research GPS tagging, EID tags, or automated feeders.
Water usage audit – Study water conservation practices in beef production.
Retail beef cuts poster – Identify and label various cuts of beef, along with their corresponding cooking methods.
Cost of gain calculator – Use math skills to estimate production expenses.
Create an educational video – Explain how to halter break a calf or prep for a show.
Attend a beef conference or field day – Visit university or industry events when available.

Tennessee Beef Industry Council 4-H Contests

Tennessee 4-H members can take part in a variety of exclusive beef-related contests and activities, thanks to the generous support of the Tennessee Beef Industry Council. These opportunities are an excellent way to develop skills, have fun, and connect with others who share a passion for the beef industry. Check out the links below for full details, deadlines, and how to get involved.

Tennessee Beef Industry Council