The North Dakota State University Extension Service has developed a publication for youth interested in getting involved in the youth market lamb project.

The 28-page publication, “Youth Market Lamb Project Guide,” is available through the NDSU Agriculture Communication Distribution Center for $2 plus shipping. For a copy, contact the Distribution Center at (701) 231-7882 or NDSU.DistributionCenter@ndsu.edu. The publication also is available online at http://www.ext.nodak.edu/4h/publications/gbj166.pdf.

“The ‘Youth Market Lamb Project Guide’ is a much needed piece of educational material for a rapidly growing portion of our industry,” says NDSU Extension sheep specialist Justin Luther, who helped create the publication. “It is ideal for agricultural educators, 4-H project leaders and, most importantly, youth with an interest in the market lamb program.”

About 1,000 youth from throughout North Dakota participate in the program.

Program participants are introduced to the basic concepts behind every successful livestock operation: goal setting, selection, recordkeeping, nutritional management, proper animal health care, animal husbandry and handling techniques, and livestock marketing.

Luther says participants have the opportunity to develop a stronger work ethic, self-discipline, patience, commitment, professionalism and a sense of achievement, as well as skills and experience that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Participants whose involvement in the program progresses from year to year may have the opportunity to advise other members of their 4-H club or FFA chapter as they get started in the project, Luther says.

The “Youth Market Lamb Project Guide” will provide youth with information on the facilities and equipment they will need. The publication also will give them tips on selecting lambs for their project, caring for their lambs and training their lambs to be exhibited in shows.

NDSU Agriculture Communication