NH 4-H Dairy Judging Kick Off

4-H dairy judging contests are a way for youth to learn to evaluate cattle against industry standards and explain their choices in a competitive atmosphere. Youth compete individually and as part of a team, and learn how to compare traits of dairy cattle, and use decision-making skills and prioritization to discern placings and give oral reasons.

4-H members ages 8-18 years old (divisions for Juniors (8-10 years old), Intermediates (11-13 years old), and seniors (14 years old and over)) are invited to participate in this event.

For 2025, youth are invited to the kick-off event on February 15th to learn the basics of a dairy judging contest and do practice classes from Hoard’s Dairyman. The practice schedule and state team qualification criteria will be discussed at the kickoff. Parents are welcome and encouraged to stay for this event and learn about the dairy judging team.

From there, youth will have various practice opportunities, and the coaches will name the NH 4-H Dairy Judging Teams to represent the state at The Big E at the 2025 NH 4-H Beef and Dairy Field Day (May 31- June 1). All youth are invited to participate in the practices, but youth looking to compete at the Big E must be 12 and older as of January 1, 2025. Youth who attend multiple practices, complete homework assignments, and show a strong willingness to learn will be given priority on the judging team. Two teams of four youth, with two alternates, will be able to compete in the 4-H Dairy Judging Contest at The Big E.

In addition, a team may travel to Louisville, KY if there are at least four Senior 4-H members who are committed to practicing and attending other judging events, or competing in a regional 4-H dairy judging contest (this means placing 1st or 2nd at ESE or coach's discretion to travel to further competition).

If you need an accommodation to participate in our programming, please contact Hannah Majewski prior to the event. Given ample time, we will make any reasonable effort to meet your needs, including language access services if requested, which will be provided free of charge.

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