There are several reasons for raising calves without their mother. Occasionally, a cow dies giving birth or doesn’t produce enough milk to
support a growing calf. Some people buy calves to raise for beef and to use grass grown on a few acres. Some are bought to help control weeds. It also makes a great beginning 4-­H or FFA beef project.

The 4-H Bucket Calf Project is designed to
introduce youth 5 to 18 years old to beef and dairy 4‐H projects. By allowing youth the experience of working with a smaller, less intimidating size of animal, they become
comfortable with beef and dairy cattle as they grow. This project is designed to reach completion in one-two calendar year. A bucket calf is an orphan or newborn calf purchased when they are 2 to 14 days old. The calves must be beef or dairy steers. The calves are started on a bottle (or bucket) and nipple.

The purpose of the project is:

• To design a cattle project to fit the physical size and maturity level of youth being introduced into the cattle industry.

• To teach proper health care and nutritional requirements of young cattle.

• To teach basic beef management skills without a large investment.

• To provide a better understanding of the feeder cattle industry.