Love horses? Then this project is for you! You will have the opportunity to learn, handle, care for and ride horses. Members may own or lease a horse, but must manage the horse 75% of the time, whether owned or leased.
Horseless horse members do not own or lease a horse. 4-H members participate by learning about horses and can participate in judging contests, quiz bowl, hippology, and give presentations. Horseless horse members may volunteer to assist with horse shows and trail rides.
There is 4-H Curriculum that can be purchased for anyone interested in the horse project. Here is a breakdown of what youth can learn at different levels:
Things to Learn/Do in the Project
Age 7-9
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Practice safety and proper use of equipment around horses
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Identify horse body parts
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Learn the breeds of horses
Age 10-13
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Learn about grooming
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Learn how to bridle and saddle a horse
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Learn how to judge and give oral reasons
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How to detect unsoundness in horses
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Learn to identify and treat equine diseases
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Learn about ethics and competition
Horseless Horse
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Learn basic coat colors, breeds and anatomy
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Study horse health, unsoundness and blemishes
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Visit a stable or farm
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Participate in judging, quiz bowls, hippology and public presentation contests
In addition to the curriculum, youth are also offered the opportunity to attend project meetings held by volunteers. Each year, youth are able to demonstrate their hard work locally at the county fair and depending on age and placing, the Kansas State Fair. There are other local and state shows available to youth as well.
The horse project is a great opportunity for youth to learn important life skills. For more information about this project or the workshop, contact Jennifer K. Terrell, 4-H Youth Development for K-State Research and Extension – Southwind District at jkterrell@ksu.edu or 620-244-3826.